VIDEO: Joe Clarke to 'get civic honour' after winning gold in kayak competition at Rio Olympics 2016

Joe Clarke, from Stone, won gold in the men's K1 yesterday, marking in Team GB's most successful day at the the Rio Olympics so far.

The 23-year-old may now be given the Freedom of the Borough after council leaders announced the plans.

Joe has been speaking about his emotions as he fought to claim the Olympic title.

"Everything kind of pieced together at the right time and the icing on that cake was the gold medal," he said.

He revealed his Olympic dreams were sparked by writing a letter in a bid to take part in a kayaking class.

Joe said his interest in the sport started while he was with the scouts.

He tried joining up at a nearby canoe club but he was still too young so it was a while before he was able to get on the water.

It was when he was in year six at middle school that pupils were given the chance to try out kayaking.

Around 50 classmates wanted one of the places, so Joe wrote a letter saying why he should be chosen.

"I handed it in and low and behold I was one of the four guys later who were chosen," he said.

"Here I am 12 years later winning Olympic gold."

Stafford Borough Council leader, Councillor Patrick Farrington, said he will be proposing Joe for the honour.

Councillor Farrington made the announcement following the gold medal for the Stafford and Stone Canoe Club paddler.

The Union Flag was also raised above the Civic Centre in recognition of Joe's victory.

Councillor Farrington said: "This was an unbelievable achievement.

"Like the rest of the country I was cheering Joe on from the start to the finish line. And it was it was great to see members of his family were there in person to cheer him on.

"The skill, courage and commitment he displayed in achieving Olympic gold will be an inspiration to so many."

He added: "It is also a fantastic tribute to the Stafford and Stone Canoe Club who, time and time again, have demonstrated what a successful organisation they are at producing world class competitors."

Joe was proposed by Councillor Farrington for the honour as a 'person of distinction' - and this must now be voted on by members of the council at a special meeting which will take place at a future date.