Rhys McClenaghan beams as he’s honoured with emotional homecoming party on return to Newtownards after 2024 Olympic gold [Video]

PARIS 2024 Olympic champion Rhys McClenaghan was hit with an emotional welcome on his return to Newtownards.

The pommel horse gold medal winning gymnast was greeted by thousands of fans as they turned out to celebrate the historic success.

Thousands of fans turned out to see their Olympic hero Rhys McClenaghan in Newtownards

The Olympic champ was full of joy as he celebrated and took selfies with fans

Ards and North Down Borough Council hosted a press conference ahead of the homecoming event on Friday 16 August in Conway Square Newtownards

Rhys McClenaghan of Team Ireland in action during the men’s pommel final at the Gymnastics Bercy Arena during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games

McClenaghan was the first ever Irish gymnast to medal at the games in the French capital earlier this month.

The Co Down athlete and two time world champion was ranked No1 ahead of the final – and matched expectations.

The gymnast looked delighted …