Students and staff from Stanwell School in Penarth and Cowbridge Comprehensive School have been thanked by the Welsh Blood Service for donations given at a blood donation sessions.

Stanwell became the first school in Wales to host its own donation sessions for students and staff in 2015.

Between the two schools, over 100 donations were collected.

Mrs Debra Thomas, Headteacher at Cowbridge Comprehensive School praised those who took part:

"We are very proud of our students for their commitment to saving lives. Every blood donation made can save up to three lives so collectively our pupils have already potentially saved over three hundred lives in Wales!

"I am immensely proud of the students and staff for helping us reach these incredible figures."

After making her first donation, sixth form student Darcy said:

"Donating blood isn't all that scary. It is really important for students to join the programme as the Welsh Blood Service is always in need of new donors, so I would definitely say 'do it'. I'm so glad I did!"

Following the sessions, more than 90 students have also signed up to the Welsh Bone Marrow Donor Registry; a database of over 35 million unique donors from across the globe.

Last year, they were joined by Cowbridge as part of WBS's comprehensive schools programme.

Based on their success, the WBS recently launched an initiative to increase the number of schools hosting their very own donation sessions. It is predicated that the scheme will help secure an additional 300 first time donors each year.

Alan Prosser, Director of Service at the Welsh Blood Service said: "We would like to thank the students and the members of staff who have selflessly contributed towards the 100,000 donations needed in Wales each year. They have shown fantastic commitment and great community spirit.

"If you have never donated before, now is a great time to try."

To start your lifesaving journey today, please visit the website by clicking the red button below or call 0800 252 266 to find your local donation clinic.