Olympic hero Dean Macey has returned home to south Essex to a meal of ham, egg and chips - and vowing to win a medal in four years' time.

Dean captured the hearts of the nation with his courageous battle in the decathlon in Athens, finishing fourth despite almost three years out with injuries.

But although he finished outside the medals, he reassured fans he will compete in Beijing in 2008.

Speaking from his family home in Rainbow Road, Canvey, last night, he joked: "Third time lucky and all that! I would love to be around for Beijing. I figure I have another six years in me at least."

"Deano" arrived at Gatwick with the rest of the the UK team to a hero's reception, along with two other south Essex Olympians - gymnast Nicola Willis from Hadleigh and former Westcliff High School student Cath Bishop who won silver in the rowing.

Dean, 26, was met by his proud parents, Patricia and Alan, and hordes of Union Flag waving supporters.

At home the hero was treated to his favourite tea of ham, egg and chips before opting for an early night.

"I am so glad to be home, I can tell you," he said.

At Gatwick to welcome home Nicola Willis were her family, and dad Alan said: "What Nicola and all the gymnasts have done is a culmination of many years hard work and dedication.

"Nicola was five when she started training, so for her this is the payback of almost 15 years' hard work."

Nicola lives with her family in Dalwood Gardens, Hadleigh, and is a former Deanes School, Thundersley, pupil.

Southend-born rower Cath Bishop proudly displayed her silver medal and then looked forward to her next challenge as a British diplomat abroad.

Published Tuesday August 31, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo