9th November 2011


St.Mungo's Hospital was pleased to report yesterday afternoon that their blood bank stores have been replenished to an acceptable level for the first time since supplies were stolen[1] earlier this year. This has been, in no small part, thanks to the many blood donations and drives[2] organised by both St.Mungo's and the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures.

"The vampire community is exceedingly grateful to know our provisions are no longer in danger of depletion," commented Tristan Vaillancourt, the department's consultant vampire. "I would like to personally thank every wizard and witch who donated their precious life blood," he added.

In spite of this good news, skeptics continue to voice their concerns regarding the muggle murders[3] that took place in March. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement has confirmed that the victims had been drained of their blood by one or more vampire perpetrators but a culprit has yet to be apprehended. It has been speculated that the deaths were a direct reaction to the rationing of blood bank supplies.

Mateo Amherst was briefly held in custody in May[4] but authorities were forced to release him due to lack of evidence. The newly turned vampire has also come under suspicion for the manslaughter of his former colleagues from the Department of Magical Cooperation.

When reached for comment, the DMLE assured members of the press that Amherst is still being investigated.

"In the meantime, we ask the public to maintain civil relations with our vampire communities," said Solomon Carstairs when asked for a statement. "Hate crimes[5] of any kind will not be tolerated and we encourage observers to immediately report suspicious behaviour."

1.	Balance in the Red - 15th February
2.	Earl Grey by Moonlight - 15th May
3.	Drink Them Dry - 18th March
4.	Fanged Friend or Foe - 4th May
5.	And it's Coming Closer - 21st March Consequences from Misfortunate - 24th March