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Bill retires from blood bank after depositing no less than 120 pints

20/ 2/2008

IT may make some people squeamish - but for Hazel Grove blood donor Bill Wyatt it has become one of his favourite hobbies.

When it comes to giving - 120 pints to be precise - blood donor Bill is a seasoned expert.

The dedicated donor from Ashbourne Road, has handed over an incredible 15 gallons of blood since the age of 18 and in 52 years has made at least two donations a year.

But now, due to age restrictions, the former charting engineer, who turns 70 this Friday, has been reluctantly forced into retirement.

So to take him up to the 120 threshold, Bill squeezed in one last pint at Stockport County Football Club on Monday - where the Stockport Express joined him to mark the occasion.

"It’s a shame I have to stop donating really," he said.

"I would carry on forever if I could, but rules are rules and after 70 they say we are more in need of the blood ourselves. All good things must come to an end.

"I’ve donated at least every six months and more recently every three. It’s just something I enjoy doing and knowing I’m able to help someone is reward enough," added Bill, who has two grandchildren.

His wife Valerie said: "I’m very proud of Bill. He just takes it all in his stride.

"It’s something his father always did and he’s followed in his footsteps. It’s become part of his life, just like playing golf.

"But we’ve got another grandchild on the way too so he certainly wont be bored."

The National Blood Service (NBS) marked the day by presenting him with special cufflinks.

A spokesperson for the NBS said: "120 donations is an incredible achievement - the highest award in our official scheme is 100 which gives an idea of just how special this is.

"We’d like to say a huge thank you to Mr Wyatt for all his donations on behalf of all the patients he has helped, and wish him a very happy retirement."

To find out more about blood donation, or blood donation sessions in Stockport call 0845 771 1711 or visit www.blood.co.uk

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