A Burley-in-Wharfedale man has been honoured for rolling up his sleeves to help save the lives of more than 225 people.

Peter Bennett was recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) at a recent awards ceremony for making more than 75 blood donations.

Only around four per cent of the eligible population give blood and of that four per cent only two per cent ever reach 75 donations.

And as each single donation can save up to three lives, Mr Bennett may have helped save over 225 patients in local hospitals.

The 64-year-old warehouse manager has been giving blood for 42 years since first donating as a Scout leader with his group of scouts.

He said he has kept giving blood ever since simply out of a desire to help other people – people like his wife Kathryn who needed a transfusion after an operation.

Mr Bennett was presented with a commemorative crystal award to mark his achievement by blood recipient Jayne Snell during a ceremony in Harrogate.

Mrs Snell, who lives near York, has received at least 23 units of blood and three units of platelets during her treatment for blood cancer acute myeloid leukaemia.

NHSBT spokesperson Donna Batty said: “It’s wonderful that we can call on people who have dedicated themselves to giving blood over so many years, performing a life-saving role for no reward, other than the knowledge that they are helping others.

“However, every year many existing donors in our region have to stop giving blood due to factors like ill-health and medication, so in order to maintain blood stocks, we constantly need new donors. If you would like to become one of the life-savers of the future, make an appointment to attend a local session either by calling 0300 123 23 23 or visiting our website at blood.co.uk.

“We welcome new donors aged from 17 to 65 and there is no upper age limit for existing donors.”