OVER 1,200 people in Wiltshire signed up to be a blood donor in the last year, but more are needed in 2018.

The NHS blood and transplant unit is encouraging people to make a New Year’s resolution that can change someone else’s life by giving up just one hour of their lives to save someone else's.

Across the country, 900,000 people gave blood in the last year, with 1,290 of these being new donors from Wiltshire.

Around 200,000 new donors are needed each year in order to maintain the supply for life saving donations.

Mike Stredder, director of blood donation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “It’s New Year and like many of us, you may be thinking about the year ahead and some changes you’d like to make to your life.

"Perhaps you want to cut down on drinking, eat more healthily or are considering joining a gym. This year we are asking people in Somerset to focus on giving and to register to give blood.

"It’s easy to sign up and book your first appointment online or via our mobile phone app.

“By donating blood you will save or improve the lives of up to three people.”

All blood groups and genetic backgrounds are needed but there is particular need for donors from black and Asian communities to help provide the right mix of blood.

To become a blood donor please visit www.blood.co.uk or download the app by searching NHSGiveBlood in the app store. You can also call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23.