Magheralin welcomes Paris gold medal hero residence

The village of Magheralin has welcomed residence gold medal-winning Olympian Daniel Wiffen.

Wiffen made historical past in Paris changing into the primary Northern Ireland athlete to win an individual gold medal since 1972.

The 23-year-old swimmer gained gold within the 800m freestyle and bronze within the 1500m freestyle.

Wiffen informed BBC Information NI it appeared half the village had turned out to see him and that was “fairly cool”.

“Every part’s sort of sinking in and I’m able to have fun tonight,” he stated.

He stated he had misplaced depend of the variety of selfies he had taken within the final two weeks.

“Yesterday in Dublin was loopy after which it’ll be rather a lot nicer as a result of I do know practically everyone within the village,” he added.

Hundreds of individuals turned out in Dublin for the Ireland team’s homecoming on Monday.

By Catherine Morrison, BBC Information NI in Magheralin

Tons of of individuals have turned out to welcome Daniel Wiffen residence.

There’s an extended line of outdated neighbours, family and friends right here to fulfill Daniel, and take a selfie with him.

Balloons and footage of the Olympian adorn the railings of the church on this small County Down village, which is so happy with his achievements.

Kids have come together with home made medals to indicate him.

Many are already speaking about beginning swimming classes, impressed by his success.

Staff Eire gained seven medals together with 4 golds – its most profitable efficiency within the Olympics.

Wiffen had been unwell since a marathon swim within the River Seine, however he stated he had recovered properly.

“I really really feel fairly match now to be trustworthy,” he stated.

“The medical doctors have been superb, set me up properly, so I used to be solely in a nasty state for a day or so.

“I’m nonetheless not capable of take any of the partying that I stated I used to be going to do after my race, however I’m positive there’s sufficient time for that.

“Tonight is all about celebrating with all my family and friends in the entire village.”