A CHILDREN'S entertainer hopes he has put a smile on hundreds of faces over the years in more ways than one.

Brian Milton, of Corn Meadow Lane, Claines, does a Punch & Judy show in his spare time, but he has helped make people laugh in another important way - by giving them the gift of life.

The 69-year-old, who is known to everyone as Pat, has just donated his 100th pint of blood.

He started giving blood in 1953 when he had just finished his national service and has continued to do so ever since.

"My job is to ensure people enjoy themselves. I like bringing a smile to their faces and hope that through giving blood I have been able to do this for many patients in need of a transfusion."

Pat could have helped as many as 300 people, as each unit of blood, once taken, can be split up into three components.

"We would like to thank Mr Milton for his loyal support over the past 50 years," said Lyndsay Stewart, spokesman for the National Blood Service (NBS).

"He is an example to us all and I hope that many others who hear his story will follow in his footsteps."

Anyone who would like to become a donor should call the NBS help line on 0845 7711 711 or log on to www.blood.

co.uk