TWO North-East donors have been honoured after giving enough blood to supply their local hospital for ten days.

Between them, they have donated a total of 176 units.

Sandra Bradley, 62, from Wells Close, and Ernest Dixon, 68, from Willow Road, both Darlington, were honoured at a ceremony in the region.

They were among 27 North-East donors recognised for their efforts in helping others. All of the 'super-donors' have given at least 75 units of blood.

All together, those attending the ceremony accounted for more than 2,000 blood donations.

Darlington Memorial Hospital uses about 530 blood donations every month, all donated by a volunteer.

Every donation helps to save or improve the life a hospital patient, whether it's a person suffering from a serious blood disease such as leukaemia, someone undergoing surgery, or an accident and emergency case.

Helen Shepherd, regional spokeswoman for the National Blood Service, said stocks of blood are high but everyone who is called to a donation session should try to keep their appointment or make an alternative date at the earliest possible time.

"We know a lot of people go away at this time of year but we would urge regular donors to keep their appointments or re-arrange them when they get back from holiday," she added.

The terrorist bombings in London also seem to have spurred North-East donors into coming forward, said Ms Shepherd.

"The London bombings seem to have had an effect on donation figures. It makes donors feel that they are doing something positive," she added.

For details on blood donation call the national donor helpline on 08457 711 711 or visit www.blood.co.uk