And so say all of us

OLYMPIC rowing hero Steve Redgrave is being cheered on by the whole of Marlow as he attempts to win a record-breaking fifth successive gold medal.

Steve, who lives in Marlow Bottom, begins his quest for Olympic gold in the heats of the coxless four on Sunday.

Marlow mayor Derek Done paid tribute to Steve saying his place in history is assured even before the games in Sydney begin.

The town council has sent a good luck message to the Olympic village.

Cllr Done said: 'It's just unbelievable. His name is always mentioned when people talk about British Olympic achievements. The town regards him as a favourite son of Marlow because his whole career has been linked with the town.'

Steve's amazing rowing career began when he was a 13-year-old pupil at Great Marlow School. He used to compete regularly at Marlow Regatta and is a life member of Marlow Rowing Club.

Clive Ricks, headmaster of Great Marlow School, Bobmore Lane, Marlow, said: 'He still acts as an inspiration to all budding sportsmen and sportswomen. We are all rooting for Steve. To have the greatest Olympian ever go to your school is an honour not many people have.'

Steve's attempt to go for a fifth successive gold medal came under threat when he was diagnosed with diabetes two years into his gruelling training cycle.

Tony Evans, secretary of the Marlow Regatta, said: 'For an average person the amount of commitment you have to put in is incredible.Then you get the problems Steve has had and he still manages.'

Villagers in Marlow Bottom clubbed together to buy Steve a professional stopwatch at the start of his career before he was able to secure sponsors. He is still regarded with great affection in the valley.

Wycombe District Councillor Malcolm Blanksby (Ind, Marlow Bottom) said: 'Everybody wishes him good fortune. He has done marvellously to get four golds. A fifth would be tremendous.'

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