AS the Give 10 Pints For Ashley donation day moves closer, Ashley’s friends and family are signing up to give blood while sharing their reasons why.

Dani Rose has signed up to give blood at the dedicated session on Thursday, September 17 at the Chelmsford Social Club.

Dani, 22, of Beach’s Drive, Chelmsford, said: “I knew Ash for ages and he was funny and very cheeky, but had a laugh and smile you just couldn’t be mad at.

“He always tried his best to cheer friends up when they were down and he was just always so happy.

“It’s still strange not seeing him laughing down Moulsham Street.

“It has made me realise just how important it is to donate blood for other people and since losing such a good friend it has made me think we should all give something back.”

Hollie Creswell, 19, went to the Boswells School with Ashley and also attended Chelmsford College.

She donated blood at a session earlier this month after deciding she would like to do her bit to help.

She said: “We did different courses at college but used to get the bus together in the mornings.

“I decided to take part in the Give 10 Pints For Ashley campaign because I loved Ashley, he was always willing to be there for you and ready to listen and give you advice no matter what.

“I wanted to give blood in Ashley’s memory because I know Ashley would be doing the exact same thing if he was still here, as he was suchakind and gentle person.”

Emma Woolley, Ashley’s aunt, has just booked an appointment to donate at the session for Ashley.

She said: “Before my nephew was murdered, I had never considered the importance of giving blood or thought about donating it myself.

“However, when my brother told me he was going to donate at least ten pints in memory of Ashley, I sat and thought about what a wonderful way it is to pay tribute to Ashley and how important those blood donations were that were used to try to save his life.

“I then realised we, too, can try to save a life by giving blood and I urge anyone who is considering giving blood to sign up and spread the word.”

The sessions are open to anyone who would like to donate blood, not just to those who knew Ashley.

Ashley’s family would like to see as many people take part as possible and each pint donated will continue his legacy.

BOOK YOUR DONATION SESSION NOW 

A SPECIAL blood donation session will be held next month in Chelmsford for people to donate in Ashley’s memory.

The session will take place at the Chelmsford Social Club, in Springfield Road, between 10.30am and 2pm, on Thursday, September 17. 

It is hoped about 70 donations will take place. 

Appointments must be booked in advance and places are going quickly as friends and family sign up, with fewer than 60 spots remaining.

Register to donate and search for the session at blood.co.uk

Let us know how you get on! #GiveTenPintsForAshley