I gave blood for the first time today. I don't really know why I haven't done it before. Perhaps the time was right, that is all. I signed up for it a couple of months ago on seeing a National Blood Service wagon in Princesshay. I remember Esther being worried about them taking all my blood, and of her mild terror at the prospect of meeting the mascot Billy Blood-drop....

 After a phonecall on Friday from the blood service people, I was booked in today at 10.35. A little bit later after form filling, blood iron testing, and water drinking I was in a reclined chair, needle in my arm donating claret. Squash and biscuits followed to help with lightheadedness. Spent the rest of the day in a bit of a daze, but feeling proud and happy knowing that part of me is out there doing some good.