A BOY who had a heart transplant when he was just 12 weeks old has won three medals in national games for people with replacement organs.

Matthew Reynolds, aged eight, of The Gossamers, Garston, competed at the British Transplant Games last month and took bronze in the tug-o-war, obstacle course and table tennis.

More than 600 adults and children participated in the games, which were held at Loughborough University over four days.

Matthew said: "I really enjoyed it. It was good."

His mother, Heather Reynolds, said: "He was disappointed to only win bronze, as he had been practicing for the events and wanted to get gold.

"We got sponsorship from Axa and West Herts Golf Club so that he could go up there and we will be going back next year, provided Matthew is well enough.

"If he wins when he is ten he might get to take part in the World Transplant Games.

"I want to thank everyone who sponsored us."

Apart from the sports events, participants enjoyed a visit to American Adventure Park and a gala dinner at Derby Football Club.

Matthew has taken part in the games before and won medals, but had to miss last year's event as he was unwell.

He said: "I want to go back next year."

This year was the 27th anniversary of the annual games.

They were started in 1978 by transplant surgeon, Maurice Slapak, to aid the rehabilitation of recipients of organ transplants by encouraging fitness through sports.

They are held all over the country with the aim of raising awareness.

Each year the number of organ donors in the region where the games are held increases.