A LIFE-SAVING habit has resulted in special recognition for a selfless Andover woman.

Jean Camfield has been presented with the National Blood Service’s rare Emerald Award after donating blood over 75 times during her life – a milestone reached by just three per cent of donors.

She has given 78 pints of the red stuff – which could have helped over 230 people – but had to stop her gener- ous donations after turn- ing 70 earlier this month.

And speaking from experience, Mrs Camfield says more people should donate because it’s so easy.

She said: “I’m proud of the award; I’m just sorry I can’t give any more. I always did it to help people, and I think it’s a bit of a shame more people don’t do it.

“You get used to it, and it’s so simple nowadays. The only thing you have to do is make sure you have something to eat beforehand.”

She added: “It really doesn’t hurt, and it’s worthwhile because you never know when you are going to need blood yourself.”

Mrs Camfield, who lives in Walled Meadow, started giving blood when she was just 18 and apart from when she was pregnant, has carried on ever since.

When she first started, only two donations were allowed each year, but donors can now give blood three times a year.

Fay Simcox, spokeswoman for National Blood Service, said: “We are delighted to congratulate Mrs Camfield on her 75 donations.

“Less than three per cent of the donor population manage to achieve such a high amount, so for that we are very grateful for her time and dedication.”

If you want to find out more about giving blood, you can visit the National Blood Service’s website at www.blood.co.uk