Becky, double gold medallist at the Beijing Games and now a national star, had been surprised in the afternoon by the scale of the welcome she received at Heathrow Airport.

• Click on the green play icon to watch a video slideshow of photographs by Chad's Roger Grayson from her homecoming in Mansfield

But she was even more shocked when upto 200 family, friends and neighbours turned out at her Ryedale Avenue home in Mansfield as she finally made it back to the town.

Homes and gardens were decked out with Union Jacks, bunting and messages of congratulations for the Olympics star, who is now a national celebrity after winning gold in the 400 and 800 metres freestyle.

• All the Rebecca Adlington stories

Becky (19), a former Brunts School pupil, was given a hero's welcome and posed for photographs, signed autographs and enjoyed finally making it back to Mansfield.

She said: "This is just unbelievable. I never expected anything like it. Thank you to everyone."

It was the first time she had been reunited with all her family - parents Steve and Kay, and sisters Laura and Chloe - since becoming the most successful British swimmer for over a century and equalling Dame Kelly Holmes' double gold medal achievements as the most successful female Olympic athlete.

Earlier in the day she had told Chad at Heathrow Airport: "I never expected this. It is fantastic, great. I can't wait to get home.

"The reaction of the Mansfield public has been fantastic and I am proud to come from Mansfield."

And Becky's boyfriend Andy Mayor told Chad on Monday: "The people of Mansfield have been fantastic to Becky. All the things they have done, the messages and goodwill gestures have been very special."

While dad Steve admitted that watching his daughter arrive on the plane at Heathrow had been a very emotional moment. He told Chad at the airport: "It is now starting to sink in. I feel prouder seeing her coming off the plane than the time she won gold."

Now Mansfield is getting ready to give Becky an even bigger welcome at the celebratory open top bus parade on Tuesday evening, when thousands of people are expected to line the streets and gather in Mansfield Market Place for a massive party.

• Open top bus tour details

Becky's day will start with a ride in a gold Rolls Royce, and then she will receive a pair of gold designer shoes from Mansfield Mayor Tony Egginton before the bus celebrations and a private party at the Civic Centre.