VETERAN blood donors have been honoured for their long-standing commitment to saving lives.
Thomas Mann, from Stanley, and Carl Routledge, from Consett, were recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant for each making more than 75 blood donations.
Mr Mann, a 61-year-old retired British Gar worker, first started giving blood in 1970.
Retired coach builder Mr Routledge, 68, first gave blood 50 years ago while in the Parachute Regiment and said he has kept donating ever since out of a sense of duty.
He said: "It’s a simple procedure that takes less than an hour of your time."
Both were presented with commemorative crystal awards to mark their achievements during a ceremony at the Beamish Hall Hotel in County Durham.
NHSBT spokesperson Donna Batty said: "It’s wonderful that we can call on people who have dedicated themselves to giving blood over so many years, performing a life-saving role for no reward, other than the knowledge that they are helping others".
Anyone interested in giving blood can visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300-123-2323.
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