Mike Ruddock shows off the Six Nations trophy to Blaina children

Ruddock made Welsh rugby history when his side won the tournament in his first season as national coach.

The Grand Slam was the first that Wales had won for 27 years.

Children at Blaina primary school were especially keen to touch the trophy and praised the winning coach with cries of "awesome" and "brilliant".

Extra police were laid on for the visit of coach who has always been popular in Blaina, but has now achieved full hero status.

We praise Graham Henry but Mike has actually done the job Rev Roger Hewett

First he drove around the town hoping that some of his Grand Slam magic would rub off on a series of community projects and admitted he was "overwhelmed" by the huge welcome from his home town.

"It's a great tribute to the players...that every town and village are very proud of their Welsh team at the moment," said Ruddock.

Later on a tour of the community on foot, he was treated almost like a Royal visitor.

Ruddock now lives in Swansea but seemingly bumped into old friends on every street corner.

Former team mate Paul Gallagher said Ruddock was "a fabulous person".

"I played youth rugby with him since I was five years of age," he said.

"He was best man at my wedding. He keeps in touch with us all the time."

Ruddock 'has done the job' said the local rector

As well as parading the Six Nations trophy, Ruddock was even asked to write his signature on a baby dressed in a Wales rugby shirt.

The rector of Nantyglo and Blaina Reverend Roger Hewett called Ruddock "The Great Redeemer".

"We praise Graham Henry but Mike has actually done the job," he said.

"He's a celebrity - we're very proud of him."