That is the message as the National Blood Service's summer appeal prepares to launch in Peterborough this Saturday in a bid to encourage more people to sign up to the life-saving campaign and ensure stocks don't run low.

In the last 12 months, 70 fewer people in the area are rolling up their sleeves and the NBS are on the hunt to replace them.

With the need for blood being constant over the summer holiday period, and throughout the year, the NBS is urging people to come forward and ensure stocks remain healthy.

Patients in and around the city require more than 20,000 units of blood products each year. People who travelling further afield including Africa, Central and South America, and Asia – all malaria risk destinations – cannot donate for six months after they return.

Those planning holidays to exotic locations are therefore being asked to give blood before they pack their bags.

The NBS will be rolling up with their recruitment vehicle on Saturday, July 26 in Cathedral Square between 9am and 5pm to kick off the campaign.