HUNDREDS of you have helped save a life during our Blood 100 campaign.
In January we began a hunt for 100 new blood donors in 100 days – and when the challenge closed at the weekend we had 376 people on board.
In recent years the number of new donors – particularly among young people – has dwindled, but East Surrey residents have answered the call in spectacular fashion.
Surrey Mirror editor Deanne Blaylock said: "Thank you so much for helping us reach this figure. When we launched this campaign we were concerned we might struggle to reach our target, but we have been blown away by the support from readers."
She added: "Of course the end of the campaign does not mean no more donors are needed. If you would like to support this amazing cause it is never too late."
In 2012, only 9,208 of East Surrey's 220,833 residents made a donation – about 4 per cent of the population. Of these, only 221 17-to-24-year-olds registered to give blood in Reigate and Banstead, 100 fewer than in 2009.
But when new donors rallied quickly to our cause, we actually reached 100 new donors in around four weeks.
John Canning, NHS Blood and Transplant's lead donor relations manager, said: "We have seen a brilliant response to the Surrey Mirror campaign – 376 new donors in 100 days is a huge leap above the initial target of 100.
"Thank you to everyone who has signed up and pledged to give blood – you have just made the first step in giving the gift of life.
"The campaign was all about making sure we have enough donors in the future. We hope that hundreds more people will follow the example set by Surrey Mirror readers."
During the course of the campaign, we have heard inspiring stories of people who began giving blood after a donor saved the life of them or a family member.
In many cases these people have gone on to donate many times over the years.
Former RAF pilot Kevin Horlock, 61, has donated 80 times over the last 30 years, after starting when his mother required blood during treatment for cancer.
The Batts Hill, Reigate, resident, said: "If you can donate, why wouldn't you? I have heard people say they don't like needles, but I doubt they would object if they had an accident.
"Afterwards you know you've done some good and it could keep someone alive."
To attend a blood donation session, call 0300 123 23 23 or www.blood.co.uk.
