Mr Wells, 70, from Barnehurst Avenue, Bexleyheath, is among just one per cent of donors who have made more than 100 dontaions of blood the the National Blood Service A retired building maintenance contract, Mr Wells gave his first pint at the age of 18, while serving in the army at Aldershot.

But he stopped once he left the army and was only persuaded to start again by his mother-in-law.

Mr Wells, who has now reached the age limit for regular donors said: "It has been my ambition to reach 100 donations and I'm really pleased and feel proud”.

Mr Zeeshan Asghar, for the NBS said: "We are proud to reward these incredible, silent heroes, who have rolled up their sleeves so many times over the years to help save lives.

“Only four per cent of the eligible population donate blood.

“So many people are indebted to these individuals who selflessly give their time for the benefit of others”.

For information or to book an appointment to give blood locally, call the 24-hour donor helpline on 08457 711 711 or log on to www.blood.co.uk