Blood donors are being urged to come forward amid fears more freezing weather could mean a shortage of blood stocks.

Health chiefs have warned stocks of blood group O negative are already running low and are calling for donors to help replenish stocks.

Group O negative is particularly important as it can be given safely to patients with other blood groups.

Platelet donors who are due to donate are also being reminded to step forward to give now. As platelets only have a shelf life of five days it is vital that these stocks are constantly replenished.

More platelet donors also needed, said a spokesman for NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT).

Giving blood is vital to ensure that patients undergoing surgery and receiving treatment for cancer and blood diseases, such as leukaemia.

Jon Latham, assistant director of Blood Donation at NHSBT, said: “To boost stocks we need to ensure that we make the most of the sessions that are going ahead to try to make up for the cancellations in other areas and urge donors to make every effort to attend.

“With Christmas rapidly approaching and the holidays this year falling over a weekend, we would also like to remind anyone due to donate to step forward now, weather permitting. Maint-aining healthy stocks of all blood groups is essential as people will still be in hospital and requiring treatment.”

To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 1232323 or visit blood.co.uk.