Maryport mayor Linda Radcliffe has been recognised for her commitment as a blood donor.

She was among 23 Cumbrian donors awarded for having given over 100 pints of blood.

NHS Blood and Transplant presented them with awards at a ceremony.

Linda, of Beechwood Close, said she started giving blood in Aspatria where she was practice manager for a GP surgery.

She said: "It was in the 70s. There was a campaign to promote blood donations and I went along. I have been doing it ever since."

Linda,a former manager and counsellor of Cumbria Rape Crisis and a lay reader in the Anglican Church in Maryport, urged others to give blood when they can.

She added: "It is painless and will help save lives."

Between them, the 23 people have made 2,450 donations.

Each blood donation can help up to three people.

If a donor has given blood 100 times, they have potentially helped save or improve the lives of up to 300 patients.

Less than three per cent of people aged 17-70 have given blood in the last year. And only one per cent of donors reach 100 donations.

In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over 7st 12lb and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood. If you are over 70, you need to have given blood in the last two years to continue donating.

To book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk