FOR the first time in 20 years, Amy Grime will be able to enjoy a mince pie this Christmas.

The 28-year-old suffers from Crohn's disease, a condition which affects the digestive system and has left her unable to eat solid food for most of her life.

But last January she underwent a pioneering bowel and abdominal wall transplant at the Churchill Hospital in Oxford.

And she says the operation has almost made her feel normal again.

Before the operation Amy, who lives in Islip and is hoping to return to work soon at the John Radcliffe Hospital, had to have nutrients delivered intravenously directly into her body.

She said: “I used to have to lug litres of fluid around with me everywhere I went, but now I can lead a relatively normal life.

“I’m just looking forward to being able to sit down to enjoy a glass of wine and a roast dinner this Christmas like everyone else.”