A CONGLETON man who lost four family members in a mountaineering accident has been honoured by the National Blood Service.

Giles Chapman, aged 60, was presented with an engraved crystal plate in recognition of his 75th blood donation.

Giles became aware of the importance of blood at the age of 22 when he was involved in a serious accident.

Whilst walking on Scafell Pike in the Lake District with his father, two brothers and cousin the weather deteriorated and they needed to get off the mountain quickly.

But as they attempted to descend, they slipped and fell.

Giles was the only member of the group to survive, and needed many units of blood to keep him alive.

After he recovered Giles decided to become a blood donor, and has given 78 donations.

He has encouraged his family to give blood, and his wife and children are regular donors.

"We are incredibly grateful to our committed donors for their support," said Rachel Roberts from the blood service.

"Every day, hospitals in the North West need 1,500 units of blood to deliver life-saving transfusions.

"To meet this need, we are totally reliant on members of the public volunteering to give blood."

Giles was presented with the award by 22-year-old Sarah Holt, from Hale, who has a special reason to thank blood donors.

She battled leukaemia at the age of 19 and a year later - needing numerous blood transfusions.

For more information on becoming a blood donor call 08457 711711.