A married couple who each gave blood 75 times were among those recognised for their donations.
Sue and Peter Betts, from Twickenham, were two of 98 dedicated donors honoured by NHS Blood and Transplant in an awards ceremony.
Donors who give blood 75 times may have helped save the lives of up to 225 patients and, out of the 4 per cent of the eligible population who give blood, only 3 per cent ever manage 75 donations.
Dominic Sutherland, lead donor relations manager for NHS Blood and Transplant, encouraged new donors to come forward and sign up to replace those who can no longer donate.
He said: “We are proud to reward these incredible people, these silent heroes, who have rolled up their sleeves so many times over the years to help save lives.
“Becoming a regular blood donor takes commitment and shows compassion.”
To donate or find out more, call 0300 1232323 or visit blood.co.uk.
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