Welsh Blood Service marks 80 years with nationwide red light campaign

The Welsh Blood Service is marking its 80th anniversary on September 26 through the ‘red Wales’ campaign. To honor the contributions of donors, staff, and volunteers, various landmarks across Wales will be illuminated in red. Participating sites include locations ranging from Castell Coch in the south to Llandudno Pier in the north, as well as buildings managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd and Denbighshire County Council.

The service traces its origins to the National Blood Transfusion Service of England and Wales, established in 1946 following the Second World War. After the establishment of the devolved Welsh Government in 1999, the Welsh Blood Service was created, eventually becoming a dedicated all-Wales service in 2016.

Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service, stated that the milestone belongs to every donor and supporter who has provided time and commitment to help others. Beyond blood collection, the organization’s modern scope includes platelets, stem cells, transplantation support, laboratory services, and research.