A GRANDFATHER has given blood 80 times after hearing how a crucial transfusion saved the life of a family member.

Paul Stanley, 71, of Weymouth, is backing the Dorset Echo’s Give Blood for Christmas campaign which urges people to find the time to give blood during the festive season.

Mr Stanley told how he was inspired to become a blood donor through learning of the plight of his uncles.

As youngsters in the 1950s, both of Mr Stanley’s uncles needed blood transfusions.

His uncle Sam didn’t survive but his uncle Nicholas did.

Earlier this year Mr Stanley was presented a crystal plate at the NHS Blood and Transplant awards ceremony for reaching 75 donations.

He said: “It was later on in life when I learned the story of my uncles and although it took me a while to start giving blood, I started when I was about 30.

“I’ve never had any problems with the needle and I’ve always tried to give blood as often as I can.

“The nurses are always very sympathetic. I’ve got quite a few friends who do it and you get to know the people.”

Retired works manager Mr Stanley is urging people to support the Echo’s campaign and give blood for Christmas.

He said: “There’s nothing to fear and nothing sinister about it and there could be a day when you need the blood yourself.

“You never realise how lucky you are. I just wish I’d started giving blood earlier.

“There’s a bigger demand for blood now because they can do so many things with it.

“I’m going to keep on going for as long as the doctor says I can. I’d like to keep on giving blood until I get to 100.

“Giving blood at this time of year is another way of giving a present.”

* The aim of the Echo campaign is to get 500 pints donated in the run-up to and over Christmas.

NHS Blood and Transplant needs to recruit 500 more donors in this area. The next donor session takes place at the Hotel Rembrandt in Weymouth on Wednesday December 22 from 1.30pm-3.25pm and 4.30pm-7pm.