Max Whitlock returns to hero's welcome at his gym after double Olympic gold

Double Olympic gold medallist Max Whitlock has returned to a hero's welcome to the gym that helped prepare him for the Rio Olympics.

The 23-year-old, who became the first Briton ever to win a gymnastics gold medal, made his return to South Essex Gymnastics Club in Basildon on Friday.

Whitlock was greeted by hundreds of delighted fans waving banners and flags - a scene he described as "unbelievable".

On 15 August, the gymnast helped Team GB to its most successful day at the Olympics in 96 years after he won two of a total five gold medals.

Team GB eventually finished second in the medal's table after two weeks in Rio with a tally of 67, including 27 gold.

These days South Essex Gymnastics Club is overflowing with mini gymnasts.

Every class is full - something that Whitlock has ensured will continue into the future - with waiting lists as long as two years.

The day after Whitlock won Olympic gold, the club received 62 new membership requests, ITV News was told.