AN athlete who can only breathe, thanks to a gift from a stranger has been hailed a sporting hero.

Mark Allen, aged 43, who received a double lung transplant in 2005, has been named Halton sports person of the year.

He was among 100 people commended for their achievements at Halton Sports Partnership Awards and celebration dinner in the Select Stadium.

Kieran Henry, aged 19, from Widnes was named young volunteer of the year for supporting Mersey Storm Wheelchair Rugby League Club.

He spends six hours a week as a committee member, coach and youth mentor.

Swimmer Thomas Roberts, aged 16, from Widnes, who trains every day at 5.30am, won young sports person of the year.

James Fallon, aged 69, from Widnes, received a lifetime achievement award after completing more than 40 years as a rugby league referee.

Halton Council leader Clr Rob Polhill said: “We really do have some amazing sporting achievements.

“The dedication some of the volunteers put in behind the scenes is amazing.”

Widnes wheelchair table tennis champion Jack Hunter-Spivey, aged 19, who has cerebral palsy and hopes to compete in the Paralympics in Rio in 2016, was the guest speaker.

Mark Allen has won countless medals as part of the GB squad at European championships for six years, including a double gold medal and silver in Lithuania in July.

He plays table tennis, petanque and shot put.

Despite having only 20 per cent of the lung capacity of a normal person, he goes to the gym and swims.

Halton Council media officer, Mark, of Deirdre Avenue, Widnes, who suffers from cystic fibrosis, said: “It is always nice to be recognised for one’s achievements but when it is from people where you live it feels even better.

“It was lovely to be honoured and totally unexpected.

“I felt humble to get the award.

“I will use the accolade to raise awareness of organ donation and promote transplant sport.”

Mark’s next major tournament is the British Transplant Games in Newcastle in 2015.