WHAT a difference a year - and a kidney transplant - has made for Michael Hardgrave as he looks forward to Christmas.

This time last year, severe dietary restrictions caused by kidney failure meant that the York man's Christmas dinner consisted of goose, two potatoes and a sprout.

Mince pies, Christmas pudding, nuts and chocolate were all banned, and he was not even allowed to a festive tipple.

And then there was always the dismal prospect of a post-Christmas visit to hospital for yet another bout of dialysis.

But his wife, Angela, gave him the best possible early Christmas gift - a healthy kidney.

And the successful transplant operation has transformed his life.

Michael, a former SAS reservist says: "You cannot believe the difference. I feel so much better.

"I'm very much looking forward to Christmas Day with my family. I'll be eating turkey, brussel sprouts, swedes, potatoes, gravy and a couple of glasses of wine and a glass of beer."

Michael, 56, of Hope Street, off Walmgate, hopes the success of their transplant will encourage other partners of kidney patients to consider donations.