Civic reception for Olympic star

Patten also finished eighth in the 800m freestyle

Olympic medallist Cassie Patten has been honoured in her home town of Liskeard, Cornwall.

The 21-year-old swimmer took bronze in the women's open water 10km marathon in Beijing. Her team-mate Keri-Anne Payne took the silver medal.

Patten was hailed as a hero at a civic reception, staged at Lux Park Leisure Centre, where she used to work.

Her first open water race was memorable too, but for other reasons - she got lost and suffered terrible seasickness.

The former Plymouth College pupil was praised by the leader of Caradon District Council.

Role model

John Turner said: "We are delighted to welcome Cassie home and recognise her Olympic success.

"Everyone in South East Cornwall can take pride in a wonderful achievement by one of our own.

"Cassie is a fantastic ambassador for the Caradon area, and her hard work and determination make her an excellent role model for local young people.

"We hope her triumph will inspire others in the district to become the Olympic athletes of the future."

Patten finished eighth in the 800m freestyle.

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