HALTON residents are invited to help save a life this Easter.

NHS Blood and Transplant is asking people to think about those less fortunate than themselves and give blood, as well as gifts and chocolate to friends and family.

A donor session is being held today iin Widnes at The Foundry, Lugsdale Road, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm and 5pm to 7pm.

Barbara Blanche, lead donor relations manager for NHS Blood and Transplant for the north west, said:“Easter is a time of celebrating new life and what better way to celebrate than to help those who need it, by donating blood.

“It’s an important time to give, as blood stocks are often more vulnerable around public holidays, when people go away or are busy getting out and about as the weather improves.”

“If you don’t yet have an appointment booked, please make one to donate in the upcoming weeks and help us to keep stock levels healthy.

“We are always grateful to donors who respond to calls such as this and appreciate that in doing so they do give up some of their precious time.”

Blood donations are a vital part of treatment for many conditions including cancer and long term illnesses, people involved in accidents and in maternity care.

Hospitals across England and north Wales need 7,000 units of blood every day and each unit can save the lives of up to three people.

Anyone aged between 17-65, weighing more than 50 kg (7st 12lbs) and in general good health could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. There is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years.

For more information or to book an appointment visit blood.co.uk or contact 0300 123 23 23.