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Lizzy Yarnold won't be getting a gold post box, despite historic Pyeongchang win

By: Luke May

Published: 13:30, 19 February 2018

She's the country's first winter Olympian to retain a gold medal, but the Royal Mail isn't making any special arrangements for Lizzy Yarnold.

On Saturday, the West Kingsdown skeleton racer won gold in Pyeongchang, four years on from her victory in Sochi.

The gold medal in 2014 sparked a nationwide campaign for the 29-year-old to be rewarded with a gold post box - the same honour granted to winners amongst Team GB at London 2012.

Lizzy Yarnold presented with a gold post box Picture: Andy Payton

A 63,000 strong petition failed to sway Royal Mail to paint West Kingsdown's post box gold in the former Maidstone Grammar School for Girls student's honour.

Locals tried to paint the box gold themselves, but it was soon returned to its red state.

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Despite Mrs Yarnold becoming the first ever British winter Olympian to successfully defend their title, Royal Mail has not changed its stance.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: "London 2012 was a unique occasion. The UK hosted the Games and our athletes performed extraordinarily well.

"Because of our status as the host nation, Royal Mail chose to mark the achievement of our athletes through gold post boxes as well as stamps.

"Royal Mail will not be creating gold post boxes for the winter Olympics 2018.”

Carpenter Terry Malone created a gold post box for Miss Yarnold's return in 2014.

Following Saturday's win he said: "I've said in the past it's one per athlete.

"But I'm more than happy to make one if the call comes through."

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