7 August 2014 Last updated at 02:38 ET
More than 600 people who have had life-saving transplants have arrived in Bolton for the start of the British Transplant Games.
Competitors are taking part in sports including archery, football, tennis and athletics over four days.
The games are held in a different location every year on behalf of the charity Transplant Sport UK.
Founded in 1978, they aim to encourage patients to regain fitness and champion the value of organ donation.
An opening ceremony was held in the town’s Victoria Square from 18:30 BST, although some events had already started by then.
The schedule includes volleyball, badminton and tennis at Bolton Arena, golf at Regent Park Golf Club and cycling at the UCLan Sports Arena in Preston.
Wendy Meredith, director of public health for Bolton Council and chairman of the event’s organising committee, said: “It’s such an inspirational event and one that really can help save lives through showcasing the benefits of organ donation.
“I’d like to urge the people and businesses of Bolton to get behind the games, be it through sponsorship, volunteering or talking about organ donation with their family and friends.”
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