FEW can lay claim to saving more than 225 lives without moving a muscle.

But that is exactly what Ron Erwood has done – by donating more than 75 pints of blood.

The 59-year-old, from Taw Hill, was honoured with an Emerald award by NHS Blood and Transplant service at St Andrew’s Church’ in Moredon, on Friday.

“It is of course lovely to receive recognition but all I have really done is be alive long enough to attend 75 sessions,” said modest Ron from Glenmore Road.

“I had no idea my blood could have helped that many people, but like my daughter-in-law Lisa said when we gave blood the other day – ‘it feels good doesn’t it?’”

Ron donated his first pint of blood in 1975 after seeing how a blood transfusion saved his father’s life.

Since then he has given blood three times a year, every year, with each donation capable of saving the lives of three people so potentially saving more than 225 lives.

He was presented with a crystal plate for his commitment to saving lives at what was his 76th session on Friday.

“To anyone who is reticent about it I would say this; don’t ponder on it, just go and do it and think of the difference you could be making, Ron said.

“These people are real professionals, it is not a painful process and of course there’s the proverbial cuppa and a biscuit after you’re done.”

Ron plans to continue donating, aiming to reach his 100th donation by 2018. To find out more call the donor line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.