A woman who has donated blood more than 100 times over the past 50 years was honoured at an awards ceremony.

Yvonne Burnside, from Amersham, has been donating blood for the past five decades after she was inspired to follow her father in his footsteps when he started to give blood.

The 69-year-old was recognised alongside 66 blood and platelet donors from London and the surrounding areas who, together, have saved and improved the lives of up to 24,000 patients.

They have donated 6,000 units of blood and 2,000 units of platelets between them.

Chloe Hixon, donor marketing operations manager for the east region, said: “This celebration paid tribute to our loyal blood donors in and around London who have given their time donate 100 times and more.

“We are extremely grateful for their dedication and commitment, as every unit of blood given to a patient has come from a valued voluntary donor.

“The lifesaving effects a blood transfusion can make to a patient is remarkable.

“Between them they have saved and improved thousands of lives, so this event is a chance to put them in the spotlight, give gratitude and honour our inspirational donors.”

Visit www.blood.co.uk or call the donor line on 0300 123 23 23 to find out how you can donate.