Landmark for heart transplant man

Mr Christon was read the last rites after one heart attack

A man who says doctors gave him five years to live after undergoing a heart transplant in 1990 is celebrating his 70th birthday.

Tony Christon, of Middlesbrough, was given the operation aged 49 after suffering multiple heart attacks.

The former steelworker, who is still taking anti-rejection drugs, said his biggest joy at reaching 70 was seeing the birth of eight grandchildren.

He added he was now looking forward to his 80th birthday.

Mr Christon had his first heart attack at 39 and suffered many more health problems before the transplant ten years later.

He was read the last rites by a priest as his condition deteriorated in 1990 before receiving the donor heart at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital.

He said: "They give me about five years after the transplant and there are some people who don't see that.

"I did not think I would be here today, I never thought I would see 70 years as you can have a rejection at any time.

"I never thought I'd see eight grandchildren, it is just unbelievable, and now I would like to see some great-grandchildren come along."

He celebrated his birthday at the weekend surrounded by family members.