Video: Lizzie Armitstead gets sunshine welcome home in wet Otley

Her grandparents even made sure it was a family affair by joining hundreds of cyclists to celebrate Armitstead’s silver medal success.

They followed their grand-daughter’s open top vintage bus as it snaked its way through the streets of the market town last night to cheers and applause from the crowds who lined the streets.

Hundreds of people braved the weather to catch a glimpse of the former Prince Henry’s Grammar School pupil as she returned home in style.

Luckily for Armitstead, the storm, which had earlier turned the town’s streets into rivers, moved on just before her parade began.

Colourful banners and flags heralded the welcome for the 23-year-old, who scooped Team GB’s first medal of the London 2012 Games.

“It feels very special to be finally back home in Otley,” she said.

“I was at the Leeds presentation earlier this week but it feels very different here because I recognise so many faces.

“I was shocked at the reception I’ve received. I really didn’t expect so many people to be here.”

The sports star isn’t planning to have a well-earned rest just yet, however.

She is now preparing for the world championships but said she hopes her Olympic legacy will continue. “I hope that young people in Otley can get given a chance to pursue any dreams they may have, There’s no reason why I should be the only Olympic medallist from this town.”

Otley Town Council leader councillor John Eveleigh, pledged to put the town firmly on the cycling map by working towards getting better routes for school pupils.

Mayor of Otley, councillor Mary Vickers, added: “Lizzie, you have certainly put Otley on the map through your success. The town is very proud of your achievement.”