Peterborough’s Olympic medal-winning gymnast Louis Smith visited the Serpentine Green Shopping Centre yesterday (Thursday) to switch on its Christmas lights.
Crowds flocked in their hundreds to catch a glimpse of the 23-year-old who is currently starring in Strictly Come Dancing on the BBC.
Louis took the time to chat to fans and sign autographs before switching on the lights.
Louis proudly showed off his 2012 Olympic medals when he arrived in his Team GB kit to greet his fans young and old.
He was welcomed by five young gymnasts who live near Serpentine Green. The children, aged from seven to 11, helped Louis switch on Serpentine Green’s Christmas lights.
Asked in front of the cheering crowds if he was tired of the adulation, Louis said: “How can you get bored of this? It is just fantastic – unbelievable.
“It’s a delight when I do get to come home, and to a spectacular sight like this.”
Chantelle Watson, centre manager, said: “Wow, that was an amazing turnout for Louis and our young gymnasts.
“Everyone in Hampton and Peterborough is so proud of Louis’ achievements it was lovely to be able to show him that support at Serpentine Green.”
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