Dream come true as Alcester's Skelton lands gold

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A DREAM come true is how Alcester's Nick Skelton described winning Britain's first gold medal in showjumping for 60 years.

The 54-year-old led Team GB to glory in a dramatic finale at Greenwich Park, just months after undergoing a hip operation.

After two rounds of jumping Britain was tied with Holland and went head-to-head in a jump off - the equestrian equivalent of a penalty shootout.

Skelton - along with Ben Maher, Scott Brash and Peter Charles - went clear while the Dutch cracked under the pressure with two riders bringing fences down during their round.

It meant Britain landed their first gold in the event since Helsinki in 1952 and the first showjumping medal of any kind since a team silver in Los Angeles 28 years ago.

Skelton, who has never finished higher than fifth at an Olympics before, told the BBC he was more nervous watching than taking part.

"I wish I could have gone four times. They've done great, the lads have done great. Absolutely brilliant. I've got a wonderful horse, wonderful owners, it's a dream come true."

Skelton will now have a special Royal Mail stamp produced and a postbox in Alcester painted gold to mark his achievement.

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