A RYEDALE resident has been recognised for giving 100 donations of blood.

Sue Butler, who lives in Rillington, first started donating blood 50 years ago after being encouraged by her father who was also a donor.

The 68-year-old said she had seen a number of benefits to giving blood.

"A friend of mine, having given blood, was found from the testing to have an acute form or leukaemia," she said.

"This early diagnosis and an intense course of treatment has seen her make a full recovery."

Sue said that she would encourage anyone who was able to consider giving blood.

"Although the donation of blood is essential for the recovery of patients, I believe it has health benefits for the donor with the formation of new blood to replace that donated," she said.

Sue was presented with a certificate and badge to mark his 100th donation at a ceremony at Hazlewood Castle, Tadcaster, alongside 49 donors from across the area.

For more information on blood donation, phone the Donor Line on 03001 232 323 or visit blood.co.uk