Falkirk and Bonnybridge residents can help save lives in Scotland by giving blood as supplies run low.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) has urged locals to book an appointment, with a particular need for Type O and Type B blood.

A donation session takes place at Dennyloanhead Community Centre on Sunday, September 20, 10am-noon and 1.30pm-4pm.

With eight different blood types, and a shelf life of just 35 days for each, blood supplies need to be constantly replenished to meet life-saving demand.

Around half of Scotland's population, roughly 2.7 million people, have Type O blood, and SNBTS needs about 1,950 Type O donations a week to keep hospitals supplied.

Around 11 per cent of the population have Group B blood, and SNBTS needs about 345 Type B donations a week to keep hospitals at the necessary levels.

SNBTS is concerned, however, because stocks are lower than it would like, and has now appealed to both first-time and repeat donors for help.

For first-time donors, the process is a relatively calm experience. Nurses aim to take 470ml of blood, working out at less than a pint, plus additional samples for testing. After a short rest, donors can relax and enjoy biscuits and a drink.

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service are asking both existing and new donors to give blood to help replenish stocks. (Pic: SNBTS)

placeholder image — The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service are asking both existing and new donors to give blood to help replenish stocks. (Pic: SNBTS)

Pauline Stewart, Head of Territory, SNBTS says: “Type O is always in demand. O negative can be given to patients of any blood type, making it invaluable in emergencies. However, O positive is the most common group in the population, and is therefore needed by more patients than any other. This makes it essential to keep type O stock at safe levels.

“Type B blood is much rarer, with around nine per cent of the population having B positive and only around two per cent with type B negative. B positive is an important blood type for treating people with sickle cell disorder and thalassaemia who need regular transfusions. B negative is one of the rarest blood types, which means it is hard to find new donors and to ensure we always collect enough blood.”

For more information on donation locations, opening times or to book your appointment visit the ScotBlood website, email - [email protected] or call 0345 90 90 999.