Peaty's 'pride' after scooping athlete of the year honour

Uttoxeter-born Peaty claimed a sensational Olympic gold in the 100m breaststroke at Rio 2016 and set two world records on his way to defending his 50m World Championships crown, also claiming the 100m world breaststroke title, in Budapest earlier this year.

Peaty's unparalleled efforts have now led to him being named Swimming Athlete of the Year at the British Swimming Awards ceremony at Old Trafford cricket ground in Manchester on Saturday.

And the 22-year-old admitted he had enjoyed a stellar 12 months of competition even by his own astronomical standards, creating memories and achievements he will cherish for the rest of his days.

"I'm so proud to receive this award," Peaty said. "To have been able to defend both of my individual world titles in Budapest this summer has been a real career highlight and something that many athletes don't often get to achieve.

"I have to thank the brilliant team I have around me and the great setup I have in Loughborough, especially my coach Mel [Marshall], and it's awesome to see her also win [Swimming Coach of the Year].

"I am already looking ahead to the next few seasons, Tokyo 2020 is now firmly in my sights.

"It's great to get the 2017-2018 season underway, I'm off on a warm weather camp to South Africa next week and then off to Copenhagen for the European Short Course Champs in December.

"Next year is going to be a busy one, where I'll be looking to defend my Commonwealth titles on the Gold Coast and European titles up in Glasgow."

Emily Large was named Emerging Athlete of the Year at the awards. Sportsbeat 2017