A sperm bank says it "desperately needs more men to come forward", as it launches a major donation drive.
Sussex Sperm Bank, in Boundary Road, Hove, has begun a new donor recruitment campaign to help tackle a nationwide shortage of donated sperm.
The bank says that around three-quarters of sperm used in UK fertility clinics currently imported from overseas.
Dorian Ransome, the Hove clinic’s person responsible, said: "We desperately need more men to come forward as potential donors to help people fulfil their lifelong wish – to become a family.
"Being a sperm donor is a highly personal choice but one that has a lasting impact on those wishing to start their fertility journey.
"We want to encourage as many men as possible to come forward as potential sperm donors."
The shortage is affecting couples across the UK, with one in seven experiencing difficulties conceiving and often facing long waits for treatment, Sussex Sperm Bank said.
Most donor sperm used in UK fertility clinics is imported, the majority of which is from sperm banks in the USA and Denmark, according to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).
The Sussex campaign is targeting healthy men aged 18 to 45 in Brighton and Hove, as well as the wider surrounding area.
Men of any ethnicity are welcome, provided they have not previously donated or are not currently donating at other HFEA-licensed centres.
Donors can receive up to £45 in compensation per visit, along with support for travel costs or complimentary Uber transport to and from the clinic.
The clinic is located just off the seafront near Hove Lagoon, with free parking.
Donors also receive ongoing support from the clinic team, including regular health assessments and screening.
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Mr Ransome said: "We would urge anyone who has ever considered it or has only recently become aware of the need for more donors, to come forward.
"Not all prospective donors will be successful candidates, as the testing and storing process means only the highest quality sperm can be used.
"In order to meet demand for donor sperm, we therefore need far more men to be willing to be tested as prospective donors."
The clinic has a secure booking system allowing donors to schedule appointments around work and other commitments.
More details are available at www.sussexspermbank.co.uk or by calling 01273 620165.
The Sussex Sperm Bank is located at 16-17 Boundary Road in Hove.
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