FLINTSHIRE Olympian Jade Jones returned home to Flintshire over the weekend as locals celebrated her lifetime achievements.

The Taekwondo star returned home to a hero's welcome in Flint on Saturday (August 31).

Friends, family and residents turned up to show their support during the street party even organised by the Flint Festival team.

Jones has enjoyed fantastic success as a Taekwondo Olympics competitor.

She made history at the London 2012 Olympics, when she became Britain's first taekwondo gold medallist and achieved her first Olympic title as a teenager.

Flint's 'Golden Girl', took gold in the 57kg weight category aged just 19 - a performance which later earned her an MBE.

The 31-year-old then retained her title in Rio four-years-later and, after a shock first-round exit in Tokyo, was bidding to become the sport's first three-time Olympics in Paris.

Jones returned to the mat in France on August 8 to take on Macedonian athlete Milijana Reljikj in the Women's -57kg events - but sadly fell to an agonising defeat.

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Despite that, people back home in Flint remain immensely proud of their two-time Olympic gold medallist, having cheered her on again from local pubs during her fight in Paris this time around.

During Jones' return home over the weekend, the day started with local dance groups Urban Fusion Dance and DRE Street Dance leading a vibrant parade up Church Street, accompanied by Deeside & Flintshire Tae kwon Do School.

The Mayor, Cllr Mel Buckley then gave a touching speech, and both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Russ Davies presented their hero with the Honorary Freedom of the Town of Flint.

A special handcrafted key and plaque, beautifully made by MijMoj, a local Flint-based company, was presented to Jones. 

(Image: George & Dragon Flint) PIC: Jade Jones with friends and family outside the George & Dragon Pub in Flint.

A Flint Town Council spokesperson said: "What an incredible day celebrating the amazing career and achievements of our very own Jade Jones, OBE

"Jade has inspired so many, not just here in Flint but far beyond. It was heartwarming to see so many residents come out to support and congratulate Jade as she stood proudly at the top of Church Street.

"A day to remember for our town, and a tribute to a true champion."

Jones took to social media afterwards to write: "Freedom of the town. I can't lie, the last thing I felt like doing, was a homecoming celebration for Paris.

"I am still in the middle of processing my emotions and realistically I am in ignore/distract mode, but I am so glad I did, it's another step in the process.

"And it was an amazing chance to thank the people of Flint, all my friend's and my family, you keep me smiling. I love you guys. PS - not many people get a whole street to party!"