THE National Blood Service is asking donors in York and North Yorkshire to give the "gift of life" to someone.

This time of year traditionally sees supplies of blood drop as everyone is busy getting ready for Christmas and New Year, and colds and 'flu mean fewer people can donate.

Hospital patients in York alone need 225 units of blood and blood products each week, and the service needs to collect more than 1,000 donations each day across Yorkshire.

Of particular importance are platelets, components of the blood which play a vital role in the treatment of leukaemia and other cancer-related illnesses. Platelets have a shelf life of just five days and so new supplies are constantly needed.

Penny Richardson, of the National Blood Service, said: "If you're fed up with shopping, why not come along.

"You can put your feet up, have a drink and a biscuit and you will be helping to save lives too."

There will be donor sessions at Osbaldwick Primary School, The Leyes, Osbaldwick, 2pm to 7.30pm, on Thursday, and 2pm to 7.30pm, Friday.

Updated: 10:56 Tuesday, December 31, 2002