HEART transplant success story Mick Kenlock can think of no better way to celebrate his life-saving operation than being the guest lead guitarist at a local social club.

Mick, 50, of Roman Road, Darwen, takes to the stage with the resident band at the town's New Gardener's Club tomorrow (Friday) - the third anniversary of his operation.

After a series of near-fatal heart attacks, he become too ill to pick up his beloved guitar.

Then three years ago he had a successful transplant at Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester.

"Music helped me in the recuperation period," Mick explained. "It was something to look forward to."

His wife Sheila added: "He's a fanatic when it comes to music, and a perfectionist."

Mick also has a passion for golf. Each year he plays for the Wythenshawe Hospital transplant recipients' team in their match against their doctors and surgeons.

Mick, who runs his own Darwen-based transport and storage business, said his outlook on life had changed since the operation.

"I tend not to worry about trivial things these days. I see things in a different context."

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