DEDICATED Wendy Hall has been rewarded for making a staggering 500 blood donations.

She received a crystal decanter in recognition of her lifesaving help at a ceremony in London's Covent Garden.

Mrs Hall, from Bourne End, was among 129 dedicated blood donors from across the south east to be honoured by the National Blood Service on Friday November 28.

Added together, the donors honoured at the awards have given over 10,000 pints of blood.

Mrs Hall donates tiny bone marrow cells called platelets, which allow her to donate more often than a regular blood donor.

Rebecca Khan from the National Blood Service said: "We are proud to reward these incredible people, these silent heroes, who have rolled up their sleeves so many times over the years to help save lives.

"Only four percent of the eligible population donate blood so the majority of people are indebted to these individuals who selflessly give their time for the benefit of others.

"You never know when you or someone you know will need blood, especially at this time of year, so we really hope more people follow their example and do their bit to help keep blood stocks healthy."