A SCHOOLBOY from York who was clinging to life before being given a lung transplant is now on the “greatest form of his life”, his father said.

Charlie York, 12, has cystic fibrosis and had become desperately ill when the call came through that donor lungs were found and he could have the operation at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.

He was transferred from his home in Long Marston to York Racecourse where he was flown by RAF helicopter to Regent’s Park.

Following the risky operation, the colour immediately returned to his cheeks and he was breathing properly for the first time in years, his father Christy said. His story was featured on BBC Two's Great Ormond Street in an episode called Fight to Breathe.

Now, on the second anniversary of the transplant, Christy has announced plans to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to help children like Charlie.

Christy said: “We have just celebrated Charlie’s second year anniversary post transplant. Despite the continuing medical regime of anti-rejection drugs, antibiotics, minerals and vitamins, Charlie is on the greatest form of his life. He has just completed a Sub Aqua course, won a 100m race at school sports day and is currently trying to master a skim board on his beach holiday. Life for Charlie and family has never been better. We realise how lucky Charlie has been to have been offered a new life.

“However, as we know from experience, life can be significantly more challenging, stressful and tough for those families with sick CF children. Charlie spent many years as an in-patient undergoing IV antibiotic treatments for his damaged lungs. Despite the excellent care of NHS professionals these hospital stays are tough both on the young patients but also the wider family.”

Christy, a farmer, will be joined by his friend Graham Senior aim to pedal just under 1,000 miles to raise over £10,000 for Cystic Fibrosis Care from September 9 to 18.

Cystic fibrosis affects the lungs and digestive system. Current life expectancy for people with cystic fibrosis is in the 30’s and there is no cure.

- If you would like to donate in support, please go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/yorkandsenior