Over the last four decades, Charles Wagstaffe has been a regular face at Peterborough blood donor sessions, and was presented with his Emerald award, an engraved crystal plate, from the National Blood Service (NBS) to mark 75 donations.

On receiving his award at The Fleet, in Fletton, the 57-year-old sheet metal worker, of Willonholt, Ravensthorpe, Peterborough, paid tribute to his employers, local firm Vinder Versatool and said: "My boss has always given me time off to go and give blood during the working day – that's how I got started really.

"About nine or 10 of the lads were going, and I thought why not? An hour off work and a nice sit down for a cuppa – what more could you ask for?

"I've always given in Peterborough, and just got into the habit when the people from the Blood Service wrote to me.

"I think it is very important to give blood, as you never know when you or your family will need it."

Currently, only four per cent of the population are blood donors, and fewer than three per cent will ever equal Mr Wagstaffe.

Communications officer for the NBS in Cambridgeshire Gareth Bell said: "Wow! What an achievement.

"Almost six per cent of people who live in the PE postcode area give blood, against a national average of just four per cent, which is great.
"That said, many people are required to stop each year as they reach our retirement age, or are experiencing health problems, and even due to relocation, and I would urge people to think about becoming a donor."

nTo find out more, call the NBS helpline on 08457 711711 or visit www. blood.co.uk