Townspeople in Otley turned out in their thousands tonight, despite appalling weather, lining the streets to show their appreciation for homecoming cycling queen Lizzie Armitstead.

Heavy downpours resembled the conditions in which the 23-year-old won her silver medal in such thrilling style.

But the weather failed to dampen the spirits of a town that hung banners in front of almost every shop, pub and cafe. More than 150 cyclists also defied the rain to follow Lizzie’s open-top victory bus as it wound its way to a mobbed market square.

Town Mayor, Councillor Mary Vickers, hailed Lizzie’s return, and council leader, Councillor John Eveleigh, said: “I’m absolutely gobsmacked at the brilliant turnout.”

Lizzie said: “I’ve been very lucky to grow up here – it’s such a lovely place to cycle and I feel a real part of the community.”

She thanked family and friends for their support, and all the sports groups in the town for their backing.