More than 50 friends and family gathered, with Civic guests, at Burnley Mechanics Theatre to celebrate Sophie’s success in the Rio Games and to mark her commitment to grassroots sports, especially in encouraging girls and women to get involved.

Sophie was presented with a Certificate of Honour on behalf of the borough by the Mayor of Burnley, Councillor Jeff Sumner. She also received a bottle of Champagne and engraved glasses, as well as a bouquet of flowers given to her by eight-year-old Lily Berry, a pupil at Wellfield Primary School where Sophie was a pupil as a youngster.

Lily, who takes part in a number of sports and activities including ballet, which is where Sophie started, was delighted to be chosen to present the flowers.

The Mayor said: “This event was to recognise and celebrate the achievements of a real Burnley star. Many of us watched the Rio Games and we were rooting for Sophie as the hammer event began. When she became the first British woman to win an Olympic hammer medal her delight was plain to see.

“Sophie’s achievements provide further inspiration to encourage participation in physical activity.”

Sophie works with Burnley Leisure and Calico as an ambassador for the Girls Up and Active campaign which encourages girls and women to take up sport

Although Sophie knew she was going to the Mechanics, she didn’t know what was happening so it was a surprise when she walked into the theatre foyer and was greeted with cheers from the gathered guests.

After the presentations Sophie was inundated with requests for photographs and requests to see her Bronze medal.