Blood donors attending a recent awards ceremony in Norwich have between them donated enough blood to save almost 27,000 lives – enough to fill Carrow Road.

The 108 donors were honoured by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) at the awards event at the ground.

The ceremony honoured long-serving blood donors from across East Anglia and Lincolnshire who had donated blood on at least 75 occasions, with 22 of the lifesavers commended for reaching the 100 donation milestone.

Between them, the honoured donors, which included 108 from Norwich, have given almost 9,000 units of blood – the equivalent of more than 7,000 pints – with each donation having the possibility of saving up to three lives.

Receiving a crystal decanter for donating over 100 times, were Anthony Tompkins, of Long Stratton, Pauline Chapman, of Poringland, David Stokely, of Taverham, Rodney Sheldon, of Norwich, and Bryan Hart, of Lakenham.

Local people receiving a crystal plate for donating blood 75 times were Minella Valori, Stuart Marpole, Trevor Wilson, David Wyer, Lesley Warnes, Gregory Britton, Jane Colman, Adrian Cooper, Jill Diggle, Janet Cross, Trish Kreft, Robert Woolnough, Terence Wright, Christopher Page, Denis Potter, George Beckett, Marion Billham, Julian Blakey, Christopher Brown, Simon Bullen, Roland Goram, Roy Jarrold and David Reynolds.

Guest speaker at the event was David White, from Norwich, who received blood and platelets during a period of chemotherapy after being diagnosed with Mantle cell lymphoma. He also underwent a stem cell transplant.

Mr White said: 'If the blood hadn't been available when I needed it at the crucial time, I would not have enjoyed my time with my five, wonderful grandchildren who were born after I was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I am so grateful to all the donors who helped me recover and allowed me to lead my life today.'

Patrick Nugent, assistant director for Blood Collection Services at NHSBT, said: 'The commitment that these donors have shown to donating blood throughout their lives is remarkable.

'They are shining examples to others thinking of donating for the first time or to those who haven't donated in a while. We are delighted to honour them in this way and are grateful for every single donation they have given.'

To book an appointment or for more information on being a donor call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk

Are you doing something special to help others? Contact Local Life editor Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or email richard.wood@archant.co.uk