Pictured above is Ryan Cinnamond, along with his brother Danny who is about to give blood. Also in the picture is Aaron Cinnamond, Emma Martin and Principal, Mr Jarlath Burns

After the major success of last year’s Blood Drive at St Paul’s, the NI Blood Transfusion Service sought to run the campaign for an extended two days this year and give staff, students and the local community the opportunity to give blood.

Ryan Cinnamond is the inspiration of the campaign and recent past pupil, Emma Martin, worked hard last year to launch the campaign with the assistance of staff and other students in the school. Last year’s blood donations was far beyond the expectations of the Blood Transfusion Unit and demonstrated the high esteem in which Ryan is held and the willingness of the St Paul’s family to get behind a local initiative.

Principal, Jarlath Burns, was more than keen to facilitate the blood drive again this year and it is now an important part of the St Paul’s school calendar. He praised this year’s co-ordinator of the event, Ms Patricia Feehan, for her commitment and organisational skills to ensure that this year’s blood drive was an even bigger success.