BLOOD donors who are O- negative are being asked to come forward to give blood following the festive period.

Blood stocks can often dip around holiday time as people get distracted and can’t always attend their sessions.

In addition, the recent outbreak of norovirus, has led to a dramatic increase in the number of people correctly cancelling their appointments.

Donors with blood group O- negative are commonly known as the ‘universal donor’ as their blood can be given to patients with a different blood group. Approximately seven per cent of the population have this blood group.

For more information, to book an appointment or to find a blood donor session please call 0300 123 23 23 or visit blood.co.uk