AN inspiring woman from Spreyton has overcome ill health to win swimming gold at both the World and British Transplant Games.

Wendy Sincock, aged 54, took part in the games 14 years after having a life saving kidney transplant.

She represented the Great Britain team at the games earlier this summer at the World Transplant Games in Durban, South Africa winning two golds, a silver and two bronze.

Her medal collection has now swelled with three golds, a silver and bronze at the British Transplant Games held at Pond's Forge, Sheffield.

Not bad for a woman who has had three heart attacks and told by her kidney specialist after a transplant that she would not be able to compete in sport again!

Wendy, a member of Okehampton Swimming Club, said taking part in both games was an amazing and humbling experience.

'It's such a marvelous way of all transplant patients to join together and participate in sporting events,' said Wendy.

'The opening ceremony is like a smaller Olympics with music, shows and dance, each country being led in by there flag bearer.

'To be selected to represent GB and Northern Island is a great honour.

Wendy gives a special 'thank you' to Nick Bowls, masters swim coach at Okehampton Pool.

She told the Times: Nick and all involved at Okehampton Pool swimming club have been great, helping with all aspects of my swimming.

'Once I was so poorly even having a conversation was demanding and tiring. Not only have I been given this chance of life , I am feeling great and want to keep as fit as I can, especially after having several heart attacks.

'Being told at that time I would never participate in sport again, I have proved to not only myself, but the doctors as well, what can be achieved.'

She also thanked her husband John for 'standing by, encouraging and cheering her on.'

'Most importantly I must stress the gratitude and thanks to my donor family — without them , I know I would not be here today.

'So I hope I am able to express the need for organ donation .'

More than 10,000 people in the UK are currently waiting for a transplant. Three people die waiting every day.

Wendy appeals to people to add their name to the NHS Organ Donor Register call 0300 1232323, textSAVE to 84118 or visit http://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/">www.organdonation.nhs.uk/