A WOMAN from Haworth who has been donating blood for 49 years has been rewarded.

Pamela Shaw was invited to a presentation ceremony at Hazlewood Castle, near Tadcaster.

She received a medal and certificate recognising her achievement of reaching her 100th donation milestone.

She was among 42 lifesaving blood donors who had collectively made 5,950 donations to be honoured with commemorative medals.

A spokesman for NHS Blood and Transplant said: "Each blood donation can save the lives of up to three people.

"If a donor has given blood 100 times, they have potentially helped save or improve the lives of up to 300 patients.

"Out of the three per cent of the eligible population who give blood, just one per cent reaches 100 donations."

Amanda Eccles, senior marketing co-ordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Our loyal donors, such as those honoured at our Hazlewood Castle ceremony, are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.

"Between them, they've saved thousands of lives, and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. These donors are an inspiration to us all.”

People can call the Donor Line on 0300 1232323 or visit blood.co.uk if they are prepared to give blood.