DURING the last four weeks more than 400 people have walked through the doors of the Masonic Hall in Sheerness to give blood, but the National Blood Service is still appealing for more donors.

Nurse Barbara Ferguson said: "People are ignorant to the fact that blood is needed. They see others donating but it doesn't occur to them that they could too. People only really give blood if they have seen their parents do it or a family member has an operation. It's almost like they have blinkers on."

Many people associate blood with accidents, but accidents account for only 30 per cent of blood usage. Twenty per cent is used in general surgery, 15 per cent in orthopaedic surgery, 10 per cent in maternity and 25 per cent in non-surgical use such as cancer treatment.

Barbara added: "New donors have nothing to worry about. During the session we try and make it as relaxing as possible. The staff make you feel welcome and we quite often have music playing."

She stressed: "We also try and answer as many questions as possible. Donors are always asked to complete a questionnaire beforehand so we can eliminate those who can't give blood."

ANYONE IN KENT WISHING TO BECOME A DONOR SHOULD TELEPHONE 0845 771 1711.