The University of East London is holding a blood donation event to boost the number of black and minority ethnic donors on the register.

The university’s Stratford campus, in Water Lane, will host two sessions on Wednesday between 1pm and 3.30pm and 4.30pm and 7pm.

Anyone wanting to donate must register and make an appointment in advance.

A spokesman from NHS Blood and Transplant said: “We are grateful to the University of East London for hosting this event.

“Don’t worry if you’ve never given blood before and don’t know what blood group you are – you find out shortly after your first donation. What’s important is that you register as a donor and book your first appointment to donate - you can save the life of someone else, while going about yours.”

Last year, approximately 10,000 black people donated blood, accounting for just one per cent of donations made in the UK.

To register, visit blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 2323.