A MAN has dedicated hours to donating plasma to help make lifesaving medicine for people with immune diseases.

Robert Woodward from Maidenhead has helped Reading's Plasma Donor centre reach its 1,000 plasma milestone just two months after collections began.

The 60-year-old ambulance medical technician has been a regular donor.

He said: “It’s a very pleasant experience, the staff are very welcoming - plasma donation is nothing to worry about. I hope my donations go on and help treat people with diseases.”

READ MORE: Attempted abduction of Eden Girls student in Slough

Donations started on Wednesday, April 7, the first time dedicated plasma donations were held in more than 20 years.

Donna Blofield, the donor centre manager, said: “We’ve had a great response from people here so far and there are another 337 people booked in to donate over the next week.

“The staff here at the donor centre are really friendly, and we’re all set to welcome even more plasma donors.”

Plasma is made into medicines called immunoglobulins. The medicines save lives by boosting or correcting the immune system.

Data shows, thousands of patients in the UK rely on these medicines but there’s an international shortage.

ALSO READ: Warning: Map shows lungworm outbreak across Berkshire

Donna added: “Donating is something simple you can do to save a life. Please give plasma if you can. We especially need men, as they’re better able to donate.”

During plasma donation, the donor’s blood is circulated through a machine which separates out the plasma and returns the red blood cells to the donor.

A restriction on using plasma from UK donors was introduced in 1998, as one of the vCJD safety measures.

This was lifted by the Government this year, following expert advice.

People can register to donate by phone, calling 0300 123 23 23. The centre is at Kennett Place on Kings Road.