Sessions will be held at Westborough Methodist Church on August 3, 17 and 24, from 2.30pm to 4pm and 5pm to 7pm.

Craig Taylor, spokesman for the NHS Blood and Transplant service, said: "Blood stocks can dip in the summer months because of a range of seasonal sporting events taking place and the summer holidays, which act as a distraction to some regular donors.

"We also have a bank holiday at the end of August making it even more important for people to donate if they can.

"Giving blood in the lead up to a bank holiday is important as donated blood cannot be stockpiled. This is because blood components taken from a donation have short shelf lives."

Anyone aged between 17-65, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and in general good health could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor.

To book an appointment, call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk