Keyworth celebrates Olympic gymnast Sam Oldham
BRONZE medal winning gymnast Sam Oldham was driven through Keyworth in a gold BMW as part of his homecoming celebrations this afternoon.
Sam, aged 19, was the youngest member of Great Britain's team of male gymnasts at London 2012 who won the country's first Olympic medal in the sport for 100 years.
Today, a huge crowd welcomed him home with a tour and a reception at the village hall that included a huge celebratory cake.
Speaking at the village hall, Sam said: "I really just want to say thank you to everyone that's come out today. The support is overwhelming.
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"I'm so proud to be from Keyworth and Nottinghamshire and Great Britain. It didn't really sink in how much support we've been getting until I got back to Keyworth."
Sam thanked his family for their support, and local sponsors who he said had got behind him in the early stages of his gymnastic career.
Of the homecoming celebrations he added: "It really has been incredible.
"I'm back in the gym now and it's going to be four long years but I'm motivated and hopefully I'll be back on that team in Rio."
Following his speech, Sam cut the cake and signed autographs for children.
Keyworth Parish Council chairman Tony Grice said he believed the people of Keyworth were "standing a little taller out of sheer pride."
He told Sam: "Our delight in you knows no bounds."
Nottinghamshire County Councillor John Cottee, who represents Keyworth on the council, said Sam was one of 10 athletes supported by the council who competed in the London Olympics, bringing home 11 medals between them.
He said: "Their achievements inspire a generation. Sam's achievements captured the imagination of the nation with team GB's long wait for a gymnastics team medal."
Councillor Cottee congratulated Sam before presenting him with a cheque for £600, from his councillor empowerment fund, towards Sam's kit for next year.
To see photos from Sam's homecoming celebrations click here.
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