A WOMAN who needed a life-saving kidney transplant less than three years ago is taking part in one of the world's most famous sporting events.

Lynn Hindle, a secretary at Blackburn Town Hall, will be flying to Canada in July for the World Transplant Games.

Lynn, who lives in Redlam, will compete against hundreds of runners from across the world, who all have one thing in common -- they have all has transplants of either the heart, lungs, kidney, liver or bone marrow to save their lives.

The 36-year-old needed a transplant in 2002 after her kidneys failed. But she fought back and last year won four medals in the British Transplant Games.

Now she will be running in five races in the world games - the 200, 400, 800, 1,500 and 3,000 metre races.

She said: "It's an achievement to get back to the quality of life I have got now. The transplant has made a major difference to my life."

Lynn was taken into hospital after suffering health problems from a young age. Recurring infections severely damaged her kidneys, and eventually she was given some bad news.

She said: "They found out through a routine blood test when I went to my doctors at 21. They said my kidneys would fail and I had to go on to dialysis or have a transplant. You just go on a waiting list and when the best match comes up they call you in. I waited about eight months."

The games began in 1978 and this year, the Canadian city of London, Ontario, will host the competitions.

It is estimated that more than 50 nations will be represented by 1,500 athletes. All ages are welcomed to the games, which features sports including track and field, swimming, tennis and 10-pin bowling..

In the UK between April 1, 2003 and March 31, 2004 2,867 organ transplants were carried out.

Lynn's proud father, Henry Hindle, 69, of Lambeth Road, Blackburn, said: "When she had the transplant I didn't think she would be doing anything like this. She was really ill.

"She had to be careful over what she ate and all sorts, but now she is perfect."

l The athlete still needs funds to take part in the event, and there will be a night to raise cash at the Furthergate Working Men's Club, Blackburn, on Saturday, April 2. For more information and tickets call the club on 01254 54895.