A CAMPAIGN urging people to take a friend to donate blood to help save lives was launched by a Leytonstone member of dance act Diversity.

NHS Blood and Transplant is warning that stocks of blood will be low this winter due to people contracting flu during the colder months.

It launched a campaign today (Thursday) called 'Don't wait to donate – and bring your mate', which is supported by Diversity dancers Ike Ezewugo, from Leytonstone, and Terry Smith, who donated blood at the West End Donor Centre in central London.

Mr Ezewugo, 22, said: “This is a great cause which affects all of us because you never know when someone you love might need blood.

“We'll definitely be coming back to donate in future. The more blood you and your friends can give, the more lives you can save.”

Anyone wishing donate blood should ring 0300 123 23 23 or visit blood.co.uk to make an appointment.

According to NHS figures, more than 7,000 units are used in hospitals across London, the home counties and eastern England each week.