 Gretna player Lee Maddison helped launch the appeal for blood donors |
A football team of people who have had their lives saved by blood donation has launched an appeal for more donors. Team Give Blood is captained by Gretna player Lee Maddison who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) fears there could be dip in donations due to people watching World Cup matches on the television.
The percentage of people giving blood in Scotland has also dropped from 6% to 5% sparking further concerns.
The 11-strong Team Give Blood gathered at Hampden to launch its appeal for donors.
The SNBTS says donations could drop by anything up to 20% during the World Cup.
Team captain Lee Maddison said the campaign could make a real difference.
"We really need people to get off their backsides and donate some blood," he said.
"Before I had leukaemia I never dreamed of giving blood or even thought about it.
"I don't think a lot of people realise how important it can be."
 |  It is vital we collect 1,000 donations of blood every single day in Scotland |
Maddison, 32, was diagnosed with the rare form of leukaemia in 2004 but after intensive treatment hopes to return to playing this year.
SNBTS national donor services manager Dr Moira Carter explained the reasons behind the campaign.
"The World Cup is a very special event, and it's only natural our donors want to join in the fun," she said.
"However, we are urging everyone to come forward and give blood during the tournament.
"It is vital we collect 1,000 donations of blood every single day in Scotland."
Team Give Blood also includes two-year-old Megan Swan, of Penicuik, currently undergoing treatment for leukaemia.
 It is feared blood donation levels could drop during the World Cup |
Their non-playing mascot is 14-month-old Ryan Snitjer, of Armadale, who received blood after being born prematurely and surviving heart surgery.
"During his 15 weeks in hospital, he was given a total of 12 life-saving blood transfusions," said Ryan's mother Francesca.
"Without these transfusions, he would not be alive today.
"Unfortunately, I myself am unable to give blood, but my family and I support this campaign 110%.
"And I keep reminding people, that it only takes three teaspoons of blood to save a premature baby's life."
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