DEDICATED blood donors from Ellesmere and Neston, who have given blood dozens of times between them, have been recognised for rolling up their sleeves to help save lives.

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor has given blood 100 times they could have helped save the lives of up to 300 patients.

Maureen Burgess, of Neston, and Brian McGaw, of Ellesmere Port, were honoured at an awards ceremony held by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT).

Brian was presented with a crystal plate after reaching 75 donations.

The 64-year-old from Ellesmere Port has been a blood donor since 1966.

The logistics planner said: “My mother was a donor which prompted me to start.

“I like to think it makes a difference, try it, it is worth it.”

Maureen received a crystal decanter for 100 donations. Only 1% of all blood donors reach this milestone.

The retired PA has been a blood donor since she was about 20.

The 63-year-old said: “It’s a small way to give back to the community. It only costs me a small amount of time but it may help someone else in a more profound way.”

The ceremony took place at the Queen Hotel, Chester, and the awards were presented by Richard Huelin.

The 67-year-old, from Bangor-on-Dee, suffered serious leg injuries in a car crash near Bickley, Cheshire, in 2009.

The grandfather was hospitalised for a month, receiving two blood transfusions and needing surgery.

Mr Huelin said: “Every day is a day a blood donor has given back to me.”

Upcoming sessions include: Ellesmere Port Civic Hall, Civic Way, on Tuesday, December 18, from 2-4pm and 5.30-7.30pm; and Neston Cricket Club, Station Road, Parkgate, on Wednesday, December 12, from 2-4pm and 5.30-7.30pm. Anyone wanting to donate should be aged 17-65, weighing at least 50kg (7st 12lb) and in general good health. If you’ve donated before you can start again up to your 70th birthday and there is no upper age limit for donors who’ve donated in the last two years. To book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.