Award for lifesaver Eric

School crossing patrol Eric Machin is a lifesaver in more ways than one.

For the last six years, Eric, aged 70, has helped children to cross the road safely on their way to Aspinal Primary School in Gorton.

Now he has been honoured with an award for giving more than 100 donations of blood since 1955.

Having clocked up a grand total of 126 contributions, the former engineer and grandfather of two has now reached the official 'retirement' age for blood donors.

Eric said: "It's something I'd always wanted to do and I'd advise anyone else to do the same. It doesn't hurt and it saves lives. At the same time you're getting a mini medical so they can pick up on health problems."

Eric's three-yearly donations have potentially saved the lives of around 300 people in the north west, since each donation is separated in blood processing labs into red cells, plasma and platelets.

Amazingly, it can take just two teaspoons of blood to save the life of a newborn baby as opposed to nearly a pint in an adult.

Manchester City Council's assistant executive member for the environment, Councillor Richard Cowell, said: "I am delighted that Eric's quiet selflessness has been recognised. He is a wonderful example to the children he helps and we are very proud to have him on the Council's workforce."

Rachel Hollingsworth, spokesperson for the National Blood Service, said: "Donors like Eric are very special and we'd like to thank him on behalf of all the patients who have benefited from his kindness."

Media contacts:

Rebecca Kennedy or Deborah Grace, tel 0161 234 3332