TWO dedicated blood donors from Croydon, who have saved up to 600 lives between them, were recognised at a recent awards ceremony run by NHS Blood and Transplant.
The lifesaving efforts of 72 blood donors from across the Croydon area were honoured with crystal awards at the ceremony, which took place at the Croydon Park Hotel.
Paul Coomber and David Walden were worthy of particular recognition, after both being recognised for their 100th blood donation.
Mr Coomber said: "My desire to help others was what motivated me to register as a blood donor and I have continued giving blood for so long as I feel a sense of pride in the fact that I have made a difference.
"Someone I know is currently having chemotherapy and I am dedicating this award to her in the hope that she will benefit from a stranger's blood donation."
Mr Walden added: "I donate blood as it is a good thing to do and it helps to save lives."
Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people.
So if a donor has given blood 75 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 225 patients.
John Canning, from NHS Blood and Transplant, said the donors' efforts took "immense loyalty and compassion."
He added: "I would like to congratulate both these donors for their achievement and hope that they continue to give blood and inspire others to donate."
