Triumphant Shropshire cyclist Richard Smith touched back down in Britain today as he and the rest of the 120-strong UK team returned from the World Transplant Games in Australia.

Richard, from Bridgnorth, picked up a silver medal in the 20km cycling event at the games on the Gold Coast.

The 42-year-old not only got among the medals but he also captained the UK cycling team, 16 years after undergoing a life-saving liver transplant following a short illness.

He was one of more than 1,000 transplant recipients taking part in the event to raise awareness of the need for organ donors and to celebrate their second chance at life.

Athletes were selected following their outstanding performances at the recent British Transplant Games in Sheffield where Mr Smith won gold medals in both the road race and the time trial events, retaining the British title he has held since 1999.

Mr Smith said: “I have won medals at the games in the past and it is always a wonderful feeling and a proud moment to succeed for your country.”

Lynne Holt, of Transplant Sport UK and the Team UK manager, said: “None of the transplant athletes would be here today without a life-saving transplant operation and their determination and zest for life is a true inspiration.”

Mr Smith is a member of Wrekinsport and competes regularly in events around Shropshire.

He had a liver transplant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.