NHS Blood and Transplant is urging people in Farnham to help save lives by giving blood this summer.

Blood is vital for patients in accident and emergency situations, patients undergoing surgery and receiving treatment for cancer and blood diseases, and women haemorrhaging in childbirth.

Every donor can save or improve up to three lives each time they donate blood.

Michelle Laserna, senior marketing co-ordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “It is easy to get caught up with summer activities such as days out with the family and the busy sporting calendar.

“But we are reminding people to book their appointment in Farnham and then save the date.”

NHS Blood and Transplant need donors from all blood groups, but particularly need O negative, A negative and B negative donors and people from Black and South Asian communities.

In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs (50kg) and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood.

If you are over 70, you need to have given blood in the last two years to continue donating.

To register or book an appointment go online at www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.