IN its 450 year history, Heskin Hall, near Eccleston, Chorley, has been linked to a variety of events and celebrations, but none quite like the double whammy that owner Christina Steen has just celebrated.

Because not only has Christina -- the eldest surviving family member -- just celebrated her 63rd birthday, it is also one year since her life was saved by a complicated heart transplant operation, a milestone she celebrated with a four-day adventure to EuroDisney, Paris.

Christina, who was widowed 10 years ago, told The Citizen how she contracted a virus three years ago which attacked her heart muscle, and up until July last year her health deteriorated to the point where doctors said a transplant was her only chance of survival.

A month later a suitable donor was found and she underwent a successful operation at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester.

Christina said: "I couldn't believe it all happened so quickly. Before the operation I was in a wheelchair and at bedtime I had to crawl on all fours like a child to make it up the stairs.

"But now I feel absolutely fine.

"I drive my own car, do all the shopping and hope to start swimming again before long."

She celebrated her birthday on August 1 and the anniversary of the operation on August 5, and took her daughter, Lynne, and granddaughter Georgina to the popular Parisian theme park EuroDisney to join in the celebration.

And although her brand new heart could have easily dealt with the excitement of white knuckle rollercoaster rides, Christina said she preferred to stick to the more peaceful attractions.

Ann Stuart, manager of the New heart-New Start appeal at Manchester's Wythenshawe Hospital, said: "Christina is just one example of a number of people throughout the region whose renewed zest for life clearly demonstrates the benefits of transplantation in human terms."

The appeal is still currently trying to raise a final £500,000 to go towards a 16-bed transplant ward for the existing transplant centre.

Anyone interested in making a donation can call the appeal on 0161 9452166. SURVIVOR: Christina Steen outside Heskin Hall