ROWER Pete Reed returned to the playing field where he spent much of his childhood, as a three-time Olympic champion.

Reed, who won a third Olympic gold by helping Team GB men’s eight win their first gold for 16 years at the Games in Rio, was given a hero’s welcome as he returned to Nailsworth on Sunday.

Fans queued up to meet their Olympic hero who signed autographs, posed for photos and even offered an Olympic hug.

Reed told the SNJ: “Nailsworth is always the most special place to come back to, it is what I look forward to more than anything.

“To return to where I spent my childhood and see the kids in the playground where I used to play was a wonderful experience.

“It was lovely to see so many people turn out and if it has inspired just one or two people that would be wonderful.”

Reed, a lieutenant in the Royal Navy, opened the newly re-surfaced tennis courts and new play equipment at the King George V Playing Field.

The work was made possible by a £45,000 grant received from Fields in Trust, who work with communities to ensure there is free outdoor space for sports and recreation.

Introducing Reed to the crowd, Nailsworth mayor Jonathan Duckworth said: “To win one gold medal represents a huge amount of effort, dedication and training but three must be superhuman.”