British pride ran high in the sporting world, under the banner of national treasure Chris Hoy who became the first British athlete for 100 years to win three gold medals at a single Olympic Games in the velodrome.

Following his victorious return home, Hoy was crowned the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year, stating: "British sport has enjoyed one of its best years in my lifetime. This is the big one. When I look at the names already on this trophy, it's quite incredible."