MEN are being called to urgently donate blood and save lives due to a "worrying" national shortage.

The call has been issued by NHS Blood and Transplant as part of National Blood Week, which takes place from today until June 16.

New figures show that only 46 per cent of Greater Manchester blood donors are male.

The NHS has further warned that nationally the number of male donors has been dropping "worryingly quick".

Almost 3,000 new donors are needed over the next year and donations of every blood type are welcome.

A strong number of male donors is essential for a safe and efficient supply of blood to hospitals, the NHS says, as men generally have higher iron levels than women meaning they are more likely to be able to donate on a given day.

Men also do not make new antibodies, which are part of the body's defence system, making it easier to match their blood to patients and to use in blood products used for treating cancer, major blood loss, burns injuries, and more.

To register to become a blood donor call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.