A man was given a commemorative medal in recognition of his one hundredth blood donation.

Vinod Unadkat, a linguist from Northwood, was celebrated at a special ceremony at St Paul’s Church, Hammersmith, which championed the efforts of serial donors.

Of those who give blood, just one per cent will reach a century of donations – a figure which has the potential to save around three hundred lives.

Mr Unadkat explained how he had previously harboured ambitions to be a medic and decided to start donating blood as a quick and simple way to save and improve the lives of others.

“I have watched my brother and father receive blood transfusions and you take it for granted that there will be blood available should you or a family member need it,” he said.

“I hope to encourage more people to come forward and donate blood and sign up to the organ register to ensure more lives can be saved.”

The 67-year-old added that he appreciates the need for more black and Asian donors and urged people from these communities to get involved with the process.

Organisers of the ceremony said it was a pleasure to recognise these donors for all they have done in helping others by giving blood.

Chloe Hixon, donor marketing operations manager, NHS Blood and Transplant East Region, said: “This celebration paid tribute to our loyal blood donors in and around London who have given their time donate 100 times and more.

“We are extremely grateful for their dedication and commitment, as every unit of blood given to a patient has come from a valued voluntary donor. The lifesaving effects a blood transfusion can make to a patient is remarkable.

“Between them they have saved and improved thousands of lives, so this event is a chance to put them in the spotlight, give gratitude and honour our inspirational donors.”

To become a blood donor, visit www.blood.co.uk, download the app by searching ‘NHSGiveBlood’ in the app store or call 0300 123 2323.