CHAMPION rower Zac Purchase found time to re-visit Worcester yesterday to launch a search for unsung sporting heroes.

The 22-year-old Olympic gold medallist, whose bulging diary means he has only four days free between now and Christmas, is backing the BBC Sports Unsung Hero Award 2008, which recognises individuals who go an extra mile to change the lives of others through sport.

He has nominated his old King’s School Worcester rowing coach Paul Stercx, who launched him on the road to glory.

Mr Purchase said: “Paul was the girls’ team coach, but would give up his time to help me train on weekends. He would take me sculling on the river and cycling. It’s people like Paul who give up their own time to support others, that deserve to win.”

Since returning from Beijing, where he won the men’s lightweight double sculls with Mark Hunter, Mr Purchase has found himself in a media scrum.

He may be taking a break from his gruelling training schedule, but has been kept busy with appearances on Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, the Pride of Britain Awards and a Question of Sport.

Today, he will be at a Downing Street reception with the Prime Minister and next week he is visiting Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen.

“It’s non-stop, but I’m having a fantastic time,” he said.

“My diary is pretty much booked up until July next year. But when you spend so much training you’re quite isolated. This is a great opportunity to meet people.”

While new-found fame is exhausting, Mr Purchase answers every e-mail and letter personally. As he spoke to your Worcester News at South Quay, in Worcester, three members of the public came to shake his hand.

“This is so exciting,” said one woman watching the scene.

“Congratulations, you’ve done so well,” said another, who asked to see his gold medal.

Earlier, Mr Purchase had met dozens of his younger fans at Callow End Primary School, in Callow End, near Malvern, and he will be returning to Worcestershire tomorrow to present prizes at time trials on the river Avon in Evesham.

To nominate someone for the BBC Sports Unsung Hero Award, supported by Robinsons, visit bbc.co.uk/sportsunsunghero before Friday, October 31.