Giving runs in the blood at Halls

Giving is literally in the blood at a leading Shropshire, Worcestershire and Mid Wales firm of auctioneers, estate agents, surveyors and valuers.

Halls, who have 10 offices across their region, have pledged to give a minimum of 100 pints of blood this year to NHS Blood and Transplant. The pledge was made at the suggestion of director Stephen Powell, who manages Halls’ Oswestry office.

"One of our directors was rushed into hospital before Christmas with a burst ulcer and needed a blood transfusion," said Mr Powell. "That got me thinking about how important giving blood is and how the company could help.

"Blood is something we all expect to be there for us when we need it, yet only four per cent of us give blood. Many people would not be alive today if it were not for the generosity of donors.

"Our pledge aims to raise awareness of the need to give blood and to help boost blood stocks, which are so very desperately needed."

Sharon Hutchinson, Halls’ marketing manager, is co-ordinating the company’s donation campaign and has designed donor cards for staff to register the amount of blood they donate.

"I am delighted with the response by staff at all our offices, who have agreed to support this great cause and we are confident of achieving the 100 pints target."

Pam Prescott, spokesperson for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "It is fantastic to see so many of the staff at Halls giving their support and agreeing to donate blood. Almost 4,000 units of blood are needed across the Midlands every week so it’s vital that people come forward to donate and help meet those demands from local hospitals."