An urgent appeal for O negative donors to give blood has been made amid a national shortage of the universal blood type.

Thames Valley Air Ambulance has made the call after NHS Blood and Transplant warned of shortages across the country.

If these shortages continue, Thames Valley Air Ambulance's ability to carry blood on all of its vehicles could be affected.

Adam Panter, chief operating officer at Thames Valley Air Ambulance, said: "When someone is bleeding heavily and time is of the essence, our crew can give them the blood they so desperately need, right at the scene.

"Last year, we gave blood to 96 critically ill or injured patients across the community we serve. That's almost two patients a week.

"But we can't perform this lifesaving intervention without those who donate blood in the first place.

"If you're O negative and able to give blood, please do so. You could help save a life."

To book an appointment to donate, visit the NHS Blood and Transplant website.

Thames Valley Air Ambulance, which was called out 3,292 times in 2023, provides lifesaving care at the scene of emergencies.

It does not receive regular government or National Lottery funding, so relies on public donations to operate.

For more information on how to support the organisation, visit the support page on its website.