Transplant games athlete privileged to help nephew

Exeter's Jo Jones is competing in three events at the British Transplant Games in Oxford

A woman who said it was a "no-brainer" to donate a kidney to her nephew has entered a sports event for transplant patients.

Jo Jones, 52, is taking part in the 5,000m (16,404ft) run, cricket ball throw and gym obstacle course at the British Transplant Games which is taking place in Oxford until Sunday.

The Exeter resident is eligible to participate as she donated a kidney to her 11-year-old nephew James in February.

Ms Jones, who is part of the Devon and Cornwall team at the event, said she thought taking part in the games would be a good way of regaining fitness after the operation.

"For me, it was as a no-brainer to do it [donate a kidney] and help a loved one," Ms Jones said.

"As an avid donor card carrier, to be able to help someone when you're alive and see that gift and someone benefitting from it has been a real privilege."

The games, organised by the Transplant Sport charity, are set to feature more than 1,000 athletes taking part in 26 sports across 12 venues in Oxford.

Ms Jones said she was looking forward to the event, especially the 5,000m run which will take place in the grounds of Blenheim Palace.

She said: "I think now with the donor register, it's more about opting out than opting in.

"But it's still important that everyone has discussed their wishes with their family so your relatives know that's what you want to do if something happens."