BLOOD donor sessions are being held in west London tomorrow (Wednesday, October 4) and on Thursday, October 5.

Wednesday's session will be at the Old Hoover Building in Western Avenue, Perivale, from 9.45am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4.30pm, and at Waitrose in Northolt Road, South Harrow, from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4.30pm.

Thursday's will be at the Greenford Hall in Ruislip Road, Greenford, from 1.45pm to 4.15pm and 5pm to 7.15pm.

Only five per cent of people able to give blood do so.

Hospitals in Middlesex use about 1,500 units every week for a wide range of treatments and conditions, including accidents and emergencies, general surgery and for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Rebecca Khan, Middlesex communications officer for the NHS Blood and Transplant Unit, said: "It's important for people to support their local blood donor sessions.

"As the demand for blood never stops we need donors to give blood regularly to ensure stock levels stay healthy.

"Regular donors can give blood every 16 weeks and we are also inviting new donors to come along and donate for the first time if they are eligible to do so."

Donors should be aged between 17 and 59 (although you can give blood on your 60th birthday), weigh over 7st12 (50kg) and be in good general health. Appointments should be made wherever possible.

For further information or to book an appointment call 08457 711711 or see www.blood.co.uk.