A 69-year-old blood donor from Worcester Park has received an award from the NHS for giving blood on 78 different occasions.

John Dadds, of Broadmead Avenue, who has been giving blood on average twice a year since he was 21, was given the award at the National Blood Centre awards dinner held in London.

Mr Dadds, who is a volunteer with 1st Malden Scouts, said: "I first gave blood as part of my national service - when you had to have a very good reason not to give blood - but I thought it was a great idea, so I have just kept on doing it."

Mr Dadds was given his award by a blood cancer sufferer who regularly receives blood transfusions.

"She thanked me for being one of the people who has helped save her life," said Mr Dadds. "That's what makes it all feel it has been worth it."