THREE dedicated blood donors from Taunton who potentially saved more than 900 lives were recognised at a recent ceremony.

Michael Robert Baker, 69, sally Daw, 63, and John Fisher, were all celebrated at a special ceremony held at Dartington Hall.

The three were joined by 32 other committed blood donors, and were all awarded medals for their work.

Mr Baker, who has been donating blood for 47 years, said he believes giving blood was an effective way of helping others.

He said: “Giving blood doesn’t hurt, the procedure is quick and you are saving lives. My mother and mother in law have both been helped by blood donors.”

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor has given blood 100 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients in local hospitals.

Out of the three per cent of the population who give blood just one per cent reach 100 donations.

Emma Lynas, who underwent a life-saving operation, received 60 units of blood during her procedure, and speaking at the event, she thanked donors for their donations.

Ms Lynas received the blood during a complicated labour when she had placenta percreta.

She was in hospital for two months while she recovered and since receiving her transfusions has begun working as a nurse at Plymouth Donor Centre in Derriford Hospital.

She said: “I would have died had I not received the 60 units of blood. My children would have lost their mother and their lives would have changed forever.

“It is thanks to blood donors and the skill of the doctors that my life was saved.

"My family are now huge advocates for NHS Blood and Transplant and my children will be donating blood when they are 17.”

Karen Healy, senior marketing coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “These loyal donors are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.

"Between them, they have saved hundreds of lives and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. These donors are an inspiration to us all.”

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 book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk