A TOWN mayor has called on residents to give blood after overcoming his fear of needles to make his first donation.

Cllr Tim Maunders named North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) and The Welsh Blood Service as his two causes to support when he became mayor of Mold earlier this year.

Speaking of his first experience of giving blood, alongside NEWSAR fundraising officer Gill Brailsford, he said: "I have a fear of needles so I was very nervous beforehand. I just don't like them full stop.

"I just didn't look - there was a scratch and then I sat there.

"It was very heartwarming at the end because you feel like you might just save someone's life and you have done something good.

"It's very nice to know that someone might benefit form it if they need it.

"I did feel a little drained afterwards but that soon passed and it was fine."

Claire Williams donor engagement coordinator at the Welsh Blood Service, said: “Welsh Blood Service needs to collect over 350 donations of blood every day and demand has risen steadily over the last 10 years as medical techniques become evermore sophisticated.

"Our next session in Mold is Saturday 3rd August and we will be based at Bryn Coch school.

"We would like to appeal to residents to please book an appointment, it takes less than 45 minutes of your time and is vital to the national health service.

"You never know when you or a family member may be in need of donated blood."

Asked what advice he'd pass on to someone who is unsure about donating, Cllr Maunders added: "Don't be nervous, just think about what good you can do."

To find out more about Welsh Blood Service and also how to register to donate please visit

www.wbs.wales