Blood donations have increased significantly since a special appeal last week, according to the Blood Transfusion Service Board.
Donations have averaged 900 to 1,000 per day so far this week. Donations had fallen recently to about 500 a week, largely due to the hepatitis C scandal. The BTSB is delighted with the public response to the appeal but says a sustained increase is needed if the blood needs of hospitals are to be met.