THE only thing making a splash in Southampton was the flowing champagne when Olympic medallist Pete Waterfield returned to a hero's welcome after his success in Athens.

After a civic reception hosted by the city's mayor Dennis Harryman, Pete was greeted on the steps of the Guildhall by more than a hundred well-wishers who turned out to congratulate Southampton's silver medallist.

Accompanied by his partner Tania Graves and his three-year-old son Lewis, the 23-year-old diver then boarded an open-top bus for a celebratory tour of the city along with the rest of his family who had travelled from their London home to join him.

They were determined to make sure he had a day to remember.

After years of training and sacrifices for the sport he loved, Pete, from Millbrook, could finally reap the rewards of his dedication.

Cars honked their horns in appreciation, shopkeepers left their till registers to take to the streets to clap and cheer at their homecoming hero.

Dad Jim Waterfield, 52, said: "This is absolutely wonderful, I am completely amazed that so many people have turned out to see Pete and show their appreciation.

"This is a fantastic day for him and a proud day as a parent. His career has been a rollercoaster for me. It is hard to believe that from all those years ago, when I drove him to training sessions and competitions, this is the result. It is completely overwhelming."

The bus, complete with jazz band and town crier, then headed for The Quays and the Eddie Read Swimming and Diving Complex, where Pete had spent many a training session perfecting his diving skills.

Awaiting him was yet another crowd that burst into applause as the bus drove into the complex, which was decked in Union Jack bunting.

After signing autographs from dozens of waiting fans, the new celebrity was ushered inside, where he and coach Lindsey Fraser were presented with commemorative plaques, bouquets of flowers and bottles ofchampagne.

Pete, who adds the Athens silver medal to the gold he claimed at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, said: "The whole day has been overwhelming. The bus tour was just incredible with everybody waving and cheering, it looked like it does when they win the FA Cup.

"The whole day I have felt like I did standing on that rostrum in Athens - totally overwhelmed."

His partner Tania said: "It has been the most amazing day. I think Pete's achievement has given the whole city a lift and it is a really proud moment to see everyone congratulating him like this."