THERE were scenes of jubilation in a Kent village today following Kelly Holmes' historic gold medal win at the Olympic Games in Athens.

The athlete's home at Hildenborough, near Tonbridge, has been besieged by camera crews, photographers and well-wishers as family and friends celebrate her victory in the 800m last night.

Her mother Pam Thomson, whose first conversation with her stunned daughter was live on radio, said: "This is a dream come true. I am absolutely ecstatic and so proud of Kelly."

Her medal haul may not end with the 800m. She is hoping to secure a historic middle distance double in her favoured event, the 1,500m. The heats begin tonight, just 24-hours after the 800m final, and the final takes place on Saturday.

She told BBC Sport: "So many people know what I have been through trying to achieve my dreams. To actually win the Olympic title at this stage of my career - I can't ask for any more."

Ms Thomson, 52, of Mount Pleasant, Hildenborough, said her daughter's victory was all the sweeter for her past disappointments and injury problems. She said: "You always hope but there have been many times when Kelly looked like she was going to do it but hasn't quite made it."

Dave Arnold, who coached Kelly from the age of 12 to 32, said: "It was obvious from the start that she was a very talented girl. It was just a question of time. Her face as she crossed the line was a delight to behold."

In the race Pembury-born out-sprinted reigning champion and training partner Maria Mutola of Mozambique in an epic duel over the last 80 metres.

Mutola was forced into fourth as the fast-finishing Jolanda Ceplak and Hasna Benhassi took silver and bronze.