St Cecilia's golden gates in Stephanie Slater's honour

Gold Paralympian medalist Steph Slater pictured at the 'golden gates' of her former high school, St Cecilia's, Longridge with headteacher, Ivan Catlow and current pupils.

And swimmer Steph was invited back to officially open the golden gates, not just the one for visitors, but others too, have been painted gold in her honour.

Headteacher Mr Catlow said: “Following the success of Steph and Team GB in Rio we thought we’d mark this fantastic achievement by painting the school gates golden. It’s a lasting reminder to pupils and the community of Stephanie’s achievement and inspiration.

“We wish Stephanie all the best in her preparations for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.”

Stephanie says she loves coming back to visit St Cecilia’s and said: “The school is always really welcoming of me coming back to visit. They follow my swimming and also celebrate my achievements.”

Since the Olympics she says it has been “non-stop and really nice visiting schools and trying to inspire the next generation”.

Stephanie remembers fondly her time at St Cecilia’s, particularly when she won the Perseverance Award when she left school – she has even kept the certificate at home.

She is also really looking forward to receiving her MBE later this year at Buckingham Palace.