SUPERSTAR gymnast Max Whitlock was left overwhelmed by the response he received on his return to South Essex Gymnastics Club this afternoon.

Echo:

Max Whitlock today in Basildon

Hundreds of fans turned out at the Basildon venue to greet Whitlock who won pommel horse gold at the World Championships last week.

Echo:

Reiss Beckford, Brinn Bevan and Max Whitlock

And Whitlock, who also claimed two silver medals in Glasgow, was clearly taken back by his home-coming alongside club-mates Brinn Bevan and Reiss Beckford. 

“It’s just brilliant,” beamed Whitlock.

“I always love coming back to South Essex because these guys always put on a great celebration party.

“It’s great to come back to them too because they have supported me all the way and I really appreciate that.”

Echo:

The heroes return

 

FULL STORY AND REACTION FROM WHITLOCK, BEVAN AND BECKFORD IN THURSDAY'S ECHO