Fans knocked out by return of city’s Olympic champion

Around 1,000 people turned up at the Merrion Centre to welcome the London 2012 star back to her home city and hear her talk about her Olympic adventure.

“It’s all been a bit mad but it’s nice to be home and to finally have some time off training and be with my family and friends,” she said. “The number of people that have turned up today is amazing. This is why I love where I’m from.”

The first ever female boxing Olympic gold medallist later visited the Breeze Festival at Kirkstall Abbey where the 29-year-old happily signed autographs for chanting fans on T-shirts, handbags, arms and mobile phones.

One admirer, nine-year-old Aidan Greene, brought his boxing gloves for her to autograph.

Aidan, of Scholes, said: “She is awesome. We watched her on the television and we were screaming for her.

“It was amazing. She won an Olympic gold medal!”

Lord Mayor of Leeds, Coun Ann Castle, said: “I am very impressed with what Nicola has achieved and I am thrilled to bits that she is here. She is a Leeds girl and is an excellent role model.”