Many people take it for granted that if they were badly injured in an accident, blood would be available in hospital for a transfusion.

But that blood is only there because of the selfless work constantly carried out by blood donors and the people who organise the service.

Sometimes, in spite of their efforts, there is not enough available which is why there is a campaign to get more people in Sussex to give blood.

It goes not only to people who have had accidents but also to those such as Fern Britnell, who features in The Argus today.

She has had more than 40 transfusions in her four years of life because she suffers from a severe form of anaemia.

It's becoming easier to donate blood now more beds are being set up in accessible places such as social clubs and offices.

Giving blood is almost painless and doesn't take much effort. It's well worth doing.

After all, you never know when you might need it yourself.