Lizzie hits the headlines with first GB medal success (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Lizzie hits the headlines with first GB medal success

1:59pm Monday 30th July 2012 in Sport

Otley's Lizzie Armitstead and her family have become international celebrities on the top of her heroic silver medal performance in the Womens Road Race at the London Olympics.

Lizzie became the fist member of Team GB to win a medal yesterday, and today, she was the front page story in virtually all the national papers.

Churchgoers in her home town gave their own seal of approval last night when there was a different start to the evening service at Bridge Church, Otley, on Sunday, when Rev Tony Gardiner led a chorus of three cheers for Armitstead.

It is understood the cyclist and her family have a long association with the church and the members of proud of her Olympic achievement.

Meanwhile, high profile figures from the world of sport have been sending their messages of congratulations to Lizzie.

Television presenter Gary Lineker , the former England footballer, posted a message on Twitter saying: “Wonderful wonderful effort from Lizzie Armitstead. Silver and GB's first medal of the games.”
Racing driver Jenson Button tweeted: “What a Stella performance to take our first Olympic medal in 2012. Congratulations Lizzie!”

Fellow cyclist Mark Cavendish, whose own medal quest proved unsuccessful, said: “Nice aggressive ride by Lizzie yesterday in the Womens Road Race, to get a silver medal. Maybe I should ask her for some tips.”

London Mayor Boris Johnson said: “First medal for Team GB! Congratulations Lizzie on her splendid silver in the women's Road Race.”