I AM writing to thank your readers who have donated blood or bone marrow to the National Blood Service (NBS) over the past year for their support and to persuade others to become donors as well.

I would also like to thank those people who support the NBS behind the scenes; the local collection session organisers, companies and volunteers who make valuable contributions to help the NBS fulfil its core purpose of saving and improving lives.

I recently presented the NBS's National Special Awards. The awards recognise the work of those people who have made special contributions to the service, including staff, volunteers, organisations, blood donors and recipients.

These people really have gone the extra mile to support the NBS.

By giving blood you really are doing something amazing, saving lives.

During the awards, as well as meeting blood transfusion recipients, I met some of the wonderful donor carers who ensure that giving blood is as comfortable as possible and also the volunteers who help organise donor sessions across the country. Without these very special people the NBS wouldn't be able to operate and a big thank you goes to them as well.

The NBS requires 9,000 units of blood every day to meet demand from hospitals and the demand never stops. Please become a donor, to find where your nearest donor session is taking place call the National Donor Helpline on 08457 711711 or visit www.blood.co.uk

TANIA BRYER

TV Presenter & Blood Donor