Home town honours swimmer Adlington

The home town of Olympic medallist Rebecca Adlington is preparing to honour the swimmer at a homecoming event next month.

Mansfield residents are being invited to celebrate the double bronze-winning swimmer at the event in the town's Market Place on September 11.

During the Games, many gathered at the Oak Tree Leisure Centre in the town to watch Adlington compete in the 400m and 800m freestyle at the Aquatics Centre in London.

The homecoming event next month will also honour Charlotte Henshaw, Sam Hynd and Oliver Hynd, who are set to compete in the London 2012 Paralympic Games, which begin on August 29.

The athletes will appear on stage during the homecoming, while scenes of them competing in the Games will be shown on a big screen.

Olympic-themed activities are also planned and flags will be given out during the event, a Mansfield District Council spokeswoman said.

Mayor of Mansfield Tony Egginton said: "This homecoming event provides the ideal opportunity for everyone from the district and the surrounding area to come together to celebrate the achievements of our local Olympic and Paralympic athletes and show our pride and our appreciation for all their hard work and dedication.

"Hopefully the Games will inspire the next generation of athletes and the event will give them the opportunity to find out how to get involved in a range of sports and activities at the sports village."

Further details about the event will be released within the next few weeks, the council spokeswoman added.