SOUTHAMPTON'S Maxine Griffiths has netted a gold medal in the 35th Special Olympics in Dublin.

The 29-year-old Lordshill woman picked up Great Britain's third gold medal in the long jump yesterday and reached the final of the 400m event which takes place on Saturday.

It is the first time in their long history that the games have been held outside America.

Guests of honour at the opening ceremony last weekend included the Irish President Mary McAleese and the former South African President Nelson Mandela.

Sue Harris, acting manager at Southampton Day Services, said: "We are very proud of Maxine - this is a great achievement for her.

"She has been selected from thousands of young athletes in Britain to take part in these games, but she's taking it all in her stride."