Delight for Kristian Thomas as he joins Wolverhampton Sporting Hall of Fame - WITH PICTURES

The Olympic medallist said it was a proud moment as he joined the stellar names such as Billy Wright and Denise Lewis on the list.

Kristian, who has now retired, was part of one of the most successful men's gymnastics teams, who went onto become household names in the sporting world.

He was recognised by the city along with former cyclist Stuart Dangerfield, winter Olympian Michael Booton and Mark Farnell, the first Paralympian to make it into the Hall of Fame.

The four were inducted into the Hall in Fame in front of around 100 guests at Aldersley Leisure Village, including MPs Pat McFadden and Eleanor Smith and senior councillors.

Kristian, aged 29, who grew up in Wolverhampton but now lives near Cannock, was part of the team who won bronze at London 2012.

The star, who trained for major championships in Halesowen, said: "I'm very proud, that is the main feeling right now. I'm from Wolverhampton and the support they have given me is incredible and has given me the opportunities in life. It's great to be recognised by the city and significant people in the city.

"It's where I'm from and my family still live here so for me the recognition from the people of the city means a lot to me."

Stuart Dangerfield, who was born in Willenhall, flew in from Sydney where he now lives especially for the event. He represented Great Britain at the 2004 Olympics in Athens and four Commonwealth Games.

He said: "I started as a 12-year-old at this very track. And to get this years later as an old man at 47 years old is special."

Paralympian Mark Farnell, from Willenhall, paid an emotional tribute to his parents and said: "For me this is more for my mum and dad. They are the ones who have done all the running around over the years to support me.

"It is nice to get this recognition, especially being the first Paralympian. I want to inspire people. I was just a kid running round the streets of Wolverhampton. If I can do it anyone can."