A low number of appointments at Dubbo Donor Centre over the Easter and Anzac Day public holidays has prompted the Red Cross Blood Service to launch the blood drive calling on good eggs to come forward and donate.

The Dubbo donor centre needs the extra donors between April 17 to 26.

Locals are encouraged to spare an hour of their time over the Easter break to help save up to three lives.

Blood Service spokesperson Brian Bruce said Easter was one of the most challenging times of the year to collect blood because donors travel away.

"The need for blood never takes a break yet we know that donor numbers are traditionally low at around holiday period such as Easter," he said.

"Some components of blood have a shelf life of only five days, so it's important that blood is donated over and immediately after the Easter break."

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Mr Bruce said back-to-back public holidays mean more donors are likely away on holidays and three public holidays in quick succession is a challenge for short-lived blood stocks.

"Cancer patients in particular rely upon blood to help them through their chemotherapy treatment, as

well as trauma patients who need it to survive major bleeding," he said.

"That's why we need 40 Dubbo residents to make an appointment to give blood this Easter and Anzac Day at Dubbo Donor Centre."

To donate, call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au