Castle Point has been preparing a homecoming fit for a hero to celebrate Dean Macey's silver medal in the World Championships.

Banners declaring "Well done Dean, the pride of Castle Point" will be put up around the borough to mark his return to Canvey following his stunning second place in the decathlon.

Dean, 21, of Rainbow Road on the island, is now officially the second best all-round athlete in the world - and the borough intends to make sure his return on Monday will live long in the memory.

The banners will be put up outside the council offices in Kiln Road, Thundersley, and in front of Waterside Farm Sports Centre in Canvey, where Dean works.

One will also be draped across the barriers on the roundabout by Waterside Farm.

Council officials are also preparing to hold a civic reception for the star.

Staff at Waterside Farm Sports Centre, where Dean has worked as a life-guard and leisure attendant since March 1996, were full of praise for their colleague.

Manager Gavin Short said: "The whole of Canvey is very proud and so are we. We were all routing for him.

"He is well liked and has a lot of friends."

Hailing a local hero - Steve Palmer works on the special banners for Dean Macey

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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