A TROWBRIDGE councillor has called on residents to support the NHS by becoming blood donors.

Donors with rare blood types are desperately needed by the NHS Blood and Transplant Service.

They particularly need donors with the Ro subtype, which is often used to treat people with sickle cell disease.

NHSBT said: "Only two per cent of donors have it but demand for it is increasing by 10-15 per cent each year.

"The combination of being rare and sought after makes people with these blood types very important donors."

Cllr Antonio Piazza said people with rare blood types could help save lives by donating blood at the Civic Centre.

He said: “I absolutely hate needles but started giving blood last year after looking into how it can save people’s lives.

"My uncle also inspired me to give blood after hearing that he did it in Italy to try and make a difference.”

Cllr Piazza praised town council staff for allowing the NHS to use their facilities.

“The Civic Centre is the perfect location for the NHS to set up a temporary blood donation centre.

“Certain blood types are especially rare and in demand, so it’s definitely worth checking out what your blood type is soyou can help.

“I’d encourage anyone and everyone in Trowbridge, who is interested andeligible, to consider giving it a go at the Civic Centre.

“It’s 100 per cent worth it and can savelives.”

To register and make an appointment, go to www.blood.co.uk