A CUDWORTH man who had a kidney transplant 20 years ago will compete in the British Transplant Games in Sheffield next year.

George Hopkinson, 74, of Acre Road, will take part in the snooker, bowls, ten pin bowling and the darts section of the Westfield Health British Transplant Games.

He was diagnosed with kidney problems in 1980 and was put on dialysis for two years until he had a transplant in 1987.

He has competed in the games for 18 years and won a gold medal for bowling, his favourite sport. George is also a member of Shafton Bowling Club and plays between five and six days a week. He said: “Bowling is my main sport, I enjoy it the most. It is my passion.”

George said he would not have been able to take part in the games without the generosity of the donors' families and said his quality of life had improved because of the transplant.

He said: “When i was diagnosed it was a life threatening but after a transplant you kind of almost get back to a normal life.”

As well as competing in the games, which were launched in Sheffield last Thursday, George enjoys the social side of the event and meeting with old friends.

But other competitors should watch out as George says: “I certainly am looking forward to the games and i am hoping to win.”