ONE of Worcestershire's newest olympians returned home to a hero's welcome today.

Matt Richards, who was part of the Team GB 4x200 metre freestyle relay team which won gold at the games in Tokyo, was greeted by his parents and neighbours as he returned home to Droitwich.

His parents Simon and Amanda sprang a surprise welcome for the champion, and dozens of friends, family and neighbours took to the streets in the town to welcome him back.

Simon Richards told the BBC: "He didn't know Amanda and I were coming down to Heathrow to get him and he had no idea this was going to happen, so it has been a big surprise for him.

"It is a huge thrill for us and lovely to see his face.

"It will take him a bit to get his head around it and I don't think it has settled in yet that he is an Olympic champion."

Matt Richards said: "I still don't know how I feel - it all feels a bit surreal but it is nice to be home and the support from everyone here has been a bit overwhelming.

"Whatever your calling in life - once you've figured out what makes you tick and what you love doing, do it.

"Take the risk - if you believe in yourself, you can do it."

Richards, who attended Bishop Perowne CE College, began swimming at the age of five at Droitwich Leisure Centre joining the Droitwich Dolphins Swimming Club aged eight before later joining Worcester Swimming Club aged ten.

In lockdown Richards’ parents helped him keep fit by building a ‘swimming treadmill’ using an inflatable paddling pool, bungee cords and a harness as restrictions meant he had to go 10 weeks without stepping foot in an actual pool.

The National Lottery is holding a homecoming event for Team Great Britain on August 15 to celebrate a tremendous summer of sport.

However, his parents Amanda and Simon Richards looked set to miss out on his triumphant return before a kind benefactor stepped up and provided them with tickets.