Transplant patient enjoying smaller, more freckled hand

The first person in the UK to have a hand transplant has spoken about his progress nearly two months after the operation. 51-year-old Mark Cahill lost the use of his right hand due to severe gout. A new technique meant it could removed in the same operation where a donor hand was also transplanted.

In an interview with the Radio Times Mr Cahill said he has had no problems accepting the new hand, despite it being smaller, paler and more freckled than the other.

He added: "I've always seen it as my hand, since the moment I woke up after the operation."

He said he also feels that the fingernails have become his own.

"They grow at the same rate on both hands and they've already been cut three times. So whatever it is that makes your nails grow must come from me."