A GROUP of eight transplant recipients treated at the Churchill Hospital are competing in the World Transplant Games.

They are part of the 320 Team GB representatives in Newcastle and Gateshead this week for the competition which has more than 1,400 competitors representing over 60 countries

Among them is footballer Chris Collis, who received a kidney transplant at the Churchill Hospital in 2009.

Mr Collis, whose kidney was donated to him by his mother, said he was looking forward to promoting the message that donations 'can change lives' adding: "I would never have had this chance without that special gift of life."

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Since undergoing his transplant, the 33-year-old has worked full time, got married, had two kids, bought a house, and has two dogs.

The games aim to raise awareness of organ and tissue donation and to encourage transplant patients to regain their fitness. Another contestant representing Oxford is throwball, tennis, and squash player Flora King, 21 whose dad donated his kidney to her in 2010.

She had her transplant at Great Ormond Street Hospital before transitioning to Oxford at the age of 17.

Ms King said: “I am so thankful to the team at Oxford.

"They are so accommodating and considerate that I actually enjoy going to hospital and my check-ups.”