A MAN who underwent a lung transplant six years ago has died in hospital -- two days after his 21st birthday.

Robert Daly, of Arran Avenue, Blackburn, suffered from cystic fibrosis. His brother John, 19, who also has the disease, had a heart and lung transplant four years ago.

Their mum, Julie, said today: "Robert was able to celebrate his 21st on Friday, although we knew his condition was getting worse."

After his lung transplant Robert was able to study at Blackburn College. He stunned doctors by recovering fast enough to go home only six weeks after his eight-hour operation.

The family moved from their previous home in Accrington to Arran Avenue in Shadsworth to be closer to Queen's Park Hospital to allow both brothers to make frequent visits.

Robert never forgot the nurses at the hospital who cared for him when he was very ill as a child and returned specially every Christmas with a card and present to say 'thank you.'

He was also a regular on the terraces at Ewood Park to support his Blackburn Rovers heroes and was lucky enough to meet some of the players during a visit to Queen's Park Hospital.

Robert leaves mum Julie, father Bob, stepfather Kevin, brother John and sisters Gemma, 17, and Chelsey , 4.

There will be a service at Pleasington Cemetery Chapel tomorrow at10am, followed by interment.

Flowers should be sent to Waring McKenna Funerals, Grimshaw Park, Blackburn, telephone 01254 51577..