KEVIN Foulger believes in giving blood for a good cause.

Now the East Ham man has received a crystal decanter to mark his 100th donation.

Warehouseman Kevin began giving blood in 1985 when the service visited the West Ham Central Mission.

The 51-year-old, left, said: “While visiting a family member in hospital I saw a number of leukaemia patients having blood transfusions. I wanted to help them, so that’s why I started giving blood.

“My son and daughter are regular donors and I’m proud that as a family we’re doing something to help.

“I’m proud to have reached the 100 mark and will continue for as long as I can.”

Kevin said his father used to say ‘there but for the grace of God go you’ and it brought home the message that it could be him, or anyone in his family, that needed a lifesaving blood donation. Kevin believes everyone who can should give blood, especially at this time of year.

He told the Recorder: “Some people wait until it affects them personally, if it is their child or wife that needs blood.But I think you should give anyway.”

Derek Carr, of NHS BT, said: “Hundreds of people have benefited from Kevin’s generosity and I am glad we can recognise his commitment in some small way.

“We would like to increase blood stocks during the winter.This will give us an extra reserve that means we can meet the added challenges that winter brings and maintain supplies to hospitals.”

If you are interested in becoming a donor call 0300 123 23 23 or see Page 23 for venues in your area.