That was because she was on top of the world after winning the 400m and 800m freestyle swimming events at the Beijing Olympics.
And she didn’t just win the 800m crown, she absolutely smashed – breaking the 19-year-old world record of Janet Evans in the process.
So it was no wonder our Olympic star returned back to Mansfield with a reception fit for a crown.
Here we take you back to that magic moment when Mansfield came together to celebrate the success of one of our own.
What are your memories of that day? If you have any retro sports images you would like to share, email [email protected]
So it was no wonder our Olympic star returned back to Mansfield with a reception fit for a crown.
5. A hero's reception
Thousands of delighted fans cheer on Becky at her homecoming in Mansfield in 2008. She became Britain's first Olympic swimming champion since 1988, and the first British swimmer to win two Olympic gold medals since 1908. Photo: Christopher Furlong
Becky holds up a newspaper spread hailing the success of Team GB. Her two medals contributed to an overall medal haul of 19 golds in Beijing for Team GB. Photo: Christopher Furlong
It was a moment that anyone who was there will remember forever. Mansfield came together as thousands flocked into town to offer their congratulations to the champion. Tell us what you remember of that great day. Photo: Christopher Furlong
Double Olympic swimming gold medal winner Rebecca Adlington waves to the crowds as she tours Mansfield following her Beijing 2008 glory. At the 2012 London Olympics, Adlington added to her tally with bronze in the 400-metre freestyle and another bronze in the women's 800-metre freestyle in a time of 8:20.32. Photo: Christopher Furlong