Blood supplies 'can meet demand'

The UK's National Blood Service said today it was “business as usual” despite the increased numbers of patients attending hospitals around London.

A spokeswoman said blood stocks were currently healthy and that the service could meet demand for blood products from hospitals if requested.

She added: “It’s very much business as usual. Any blood donor who was due to give blood should keep those appointments.

“Anyone who wishes to know about giving blood should ring 08457 711711 or log on to www.blood.co.uk.

“We are not, at this stage, in a position where we need to cancel any routine operations.”