Leeds General Infirmary in UK's first double hand transplant

Chris King is recovering from the 12-hour operation at Leeds General Infirmary.

The 57-year-old lost both his hands, except the thumbs, in an accident involving a metal pressing machine at work three years ago.

Mr King, from Rossington, near Doncaster, said: “I couldn’t wish for anything better. It’s better than a lottery win because you feel whole again.”

He said he already has some movement: “They look absolutely tremendous,” he said.

“They’re my hands. My blood’s going through them. My tendons are attached. They’re mine.”

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He was the second person to have a hand transplant in Leeds and the first to have both hands replaced.

Now, he is looking forward to cycling, gardening with his ride-on mower, wearing shirts with buttons and especially holding a bottle of beer properly.

Mr King became tearful when he was asked about the anonymous donor who gave their hands: “It’s marvellous. It’s like somebody putting an arm round you and saying you’ll be alright.

“Even if you don’t have a donor card, just have the conversation with your family. There’s no greater gift.”