Sam and his family were escorted by the Chairman of Ashfield District Council, Councillor May Barsby in a chauffeur-driven Mercedes, kindly provided by Ken Gregory & Sons, from Sutton Pools. Sam was greeted by crowds of flag wavers at Ashfield School and Orchard Primary Schools, before arriving for a rousing Civic Reception at Ashfield District Council Offices.

Sam, who smashed the world Record in the 400 metres Freestyle S8 event, was greeted on stage by the Leader of Ashfield District Council, Councillor Jason Zadrodzny, Chief Executive Alan Mellor, Gren Greaves, Sam’s first swimming coach from Sutton Swimming Club and Glenn Smith, his current coach with the Nottinghamshire Nova Squad.

To mark his achievements in the Paralymics Sam was presented with a Lifetime Gold Card, giving him free access to Ashfield District Council’s Leisure Centres for swimming and gym sessions, a special framed memorial scroll with the Ashfield District Council Seal and a designer watch.

After interviews and presentations Sam raised the 2012 Olympic Flag in a ceremony to celebrate the handover of the Olympic and Paralympic Games from Beijing to London.

Sam said, ‘I would like to thank everyone for turning out in the pouring rain tonight. I am overwhelmed by the response.’

Glenn Smith commented, ‘There is still more to come from Sam. He will get faster and stronger on the way to 2012!’