A wheely good thing to do

Keen cyclist Pete Mearns knows that when his time to give blood rolls around, he can help save lives.

The free-wheeling Dundonian first started giving blood aged 29. He explains, 'It was a family member that mentioned to me that they gave blood and asked me if I wanted to come along. It’s something that I'd never thought of. Through my work as a Renal Care Assistant at Ninewells Hospital, I understand how important blood donation is - then learning that each time I give blood, I could be helping to save or improve the lives of up to three people, it's just an amazing thing to do. It's what makes me keep giving, knowing that three people could benefit from my one donation.

'Fast forward 27 years and I'm still donating. Like my family member did to me, I'd like to encourage you all to invite a member of your family to come and give blood. It's so easy to book your appointment online or give them a call - it's all it takes to make a difference to someone's life. The reward of donating is knowing it’s helping someone, and it's an amazing thing.

'Go on. Make your appointment today.'

The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) aim to keep six days of each blood type in stock. If you've never given blood before or we've not seen you in a while we’d like to give you a warm welcome.

• If, like Pete, you want to do something amazing, book your appointment online or by calling 0345 90 90 999.