THOUSANDS in Sussex are being urged to take some time out during the Christmas rush and potentially save a life.

Blood donations in the county traditionally drop during the festive period, but NHS bosses said supplies are always urgently needed.

Figures from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) show there have been more than 12,300 active donors across the county during the past two years but more volunteers are always wanted.

Last year, one in five blood donor appointments were missed over Christmas and New Year, putting the service under more pressure.

There will be extra pressure this year as Christmas Day and Boxing Day fall ahead of a weekend, raising concerns that fewer people than usual will get around to making life-saving donations during that time.

NHSBT senior marketing co-ordinator Selina Charles said: “Blood stock levels can drop dramatically over the busy festive period as Christmas shopping, celebrations and extended public holidays mean giving blood slips off the nation’s to-do lists.

“At this time of year, many people want to give something more than material gifts.

“A blood donation truly is the gift only you can give and with one single donation you can save or improve up to three lives. Don’t worry if you’ve never given blood before – now is a great time to sign up and start giving.”

Donations are needed to treat patients with cancer and anaemias after accidents or childbirth and during surgery. Platelet donations are used to help with serious blood disorders and people who have undergone transplants.

Every blood donation is vital, but over the winter months NHSBT particularly needs to ensure supplies of the universal blood group O Rh Negative, which is often in short supply as demand is so great.

It also needs to have stocks with the rarer blood groups A Rh Negative, B Rh Negative and AB Rh Negative as these are vulnerable to shortfall.

Visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 2323 to find your nearest session.