A liver transplant patient from Thurrock is celebrating a major milestone in his recovery journey, after winning a bronze medal in the British Transplant Games.

David Marchant, 58, a builder from Grays, won the medal in Nottingham after completing the 1,500 metre race in just six-and-a-half minutes.

A patient at Basildon Hospital since 2005, David has been battling various liver conditions, had a liver transplant at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge last year. He is receiving continued care and monitoring at Basildon.

He said: "The care I've received at Basildon Hospital has been phenomenal. Everyone's been so positive and supportive over these 19 years. This win wouldn't have been possible without their dedication.

"It's not just a personal achievement but also something I hope will inspire others who have had transplants. Keeping fit is essential at every stage, especially for those on a transplant list, and hopefully this shows others what's possible."

Dr Chirag Oza, Consultant Gastroenterologist, David Marchant and Sarah Fairclough, Liver Nurse Specialist;

And David isn't finished yet, he's next got his sights set on the World Transplant Games in Germany, next year.

Sarah Fairclough, Liver Nurse Specialist at Basildon Hospital, part of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We're so proud of David's achievement. His commitment and efforts to keep healthy have been inspiring to see. It's been a pleasure taking care of him over the years."

David Marchant at the British Transplant Games

Basildon Hospital's liver services range from prevention and diagnosis to long-term management, including joint liver transplant clinics with Addenbrooke's.