More donors urged to help vital research

Men aged between 16 and 30 are the most likely to be asked to donate to give someone with blood cancer or a blood disorder a second chance at life.

The average age for donors in Blackpool South is 34 with 36 per cent of donors in the community being male.

Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden said: “Donating stem cells is straightforward but it could make an enormous difference to someone with no other chance of a cure.

“I strongly hope that more people from across the town will be inspired to sign up and show that together, our communities can provide a cure for blood cancer.”

The figures come from the Anthony Nolan’s Communities versus Blood Cancer campaign, which celebrates existing donors as well as raising awareness of the shortage of donors that still exists.

Henny Braund, chief executive of Anthony Nolan, said reseach had increased the support patients receive.

He added: “Without the contribution of selfless donors, our vital work would be impossible.”

For more information about Anthony Nolan, visit www.anthonynolan.org