CORONAVIRUS survivors are being asked to book into a new donor centre in Bolton.

NHS Blood and Transplant has opened the doors of a new plasma donation centre at Bark Street in the town as part of clinical trials into treatments for Covid-19.

Scientists are trying to determine whether the antibody-rich blood plasma found in people who have had the virus can used as a treatment for those who become ill.

The donated plasma is transfused into patients who are struggling to develop their own immune response and already 190 people Greater Manchester have been recipients.

One of the first people to donate was James Finlay, a football coach from Worsley.

He said: "I was very keen to donate when I heard it could be useful.

"It’s such a small thing to do but must be a huge thing to receive. It’s very easy and all the staff were welcoming, caring and grateful.

Melanie Milloy, donor centre manager, said: “We would love to see people in Bolton offering to donate so we can book them into donation appointments now."

"Donation is safe and easy, and you could save lives. Your body quickly replaces the antibodies afterwards.”

Donating takes 45 minutes and the whole appointment, including time for snacks, lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Already 280 people have booked in to donate at the centre, but more are being sought, especially male donors and those from BAME communities. Anyone over 18 can volunteer by visiting www.nhsbt.nhs.uk or search online for 'donate plasma'.