People are being urged to make giving blood one of their New Year's resolutions for 2014.

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is encouraging people to donate blood in the first few weeks of January, when blood stocks are particularly low because of the weather and dark nights keeping people indoors.

John Canning, NHSBT’s lead donor relations manager for the London South West and Surrey area, said: "People often set themselves very difficult and drastic challenges for their New Year’s resolutions which they struggle to complete.

"We are asking people to do something very simple which should only take around an hour of their time, a few times a year. Making and keeping a New Year’s resolution to give blood will give you the satisfaction of knowing you are saving lives.

"We can also guarantee you a warm welcome, a nice drink and a biscuit to stave off the cold January weather."

Anyone aged 17 to 65, weighing more than 50 kg (seven stone 12lbs) and in general good health, can give blood.

For more information or to book an appointment call 0300 1232323 or visit www.blood.co.uk.

Blood donor sessions coming up in the area include: Ashtead January 17 1.30pm to 4pm; 5pm to 7.30pm Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall,Woodfield Lane, Ashtead, KT21 2BE.

Ewell January 10 and 31 1.30pm to 4pm; 5pm to 7.30pm Bourne Hall, Banqueting Suites, Spring Street, Ewell, KT17 1UF.

Worcester Park January 2 and 22 2pm to 4.30pm; 5.30pm to 8pm St. Philip, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park, KT4 8LG.