DEDICATED blood donors have been honoured during a ceremony. Among those celebrating were Francis Harding and Christopher Honey from Hitchin, Brian Threadingham from Stevenage and Brian Perry from Letchworth GC who were awarded crystal plates to mark the

DEDICATED blood donors have been honoured during a ceremony.

Among those celebrating were Francis Harding and Christopher Honey from Hitchin, Brian Threadingham from Stevenage and Brian Perry from Letchworth GC who were awarded crystal plates to mark their 75th blood donations.

Joan Vernon from Stotfold received a crystal decanter in recognition of her 100 blood donations.

Rebecca Khan from the blood service said "Only 3 per cent of blood donors reach their 75th donation and only one per cent reach their 100th so it is a great achievement for these donors to reach these milestones."

Mrs Khan added: "These donors are an inspiration to us all. For many years they have turned up and given blood regularly. Their dedication has had a great impact on society and hundreds of patients will have benefited as a result."

Forthcoming sessions include:

* Monday September 11 and Monday September 18 - Stevenage Leisure Centre from 9.15am to 12.30pm and from 2pm until 4.15pm.

* Friday September 15 - Hitchin Town Hall from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and from 5pm to 7.30pm.

* Monday September 25 - Plinston Hall, Letchworth GC from 12.15pm to 3.30pm and 5pm to 7.30pm.