LANCASTER-BORN cyclist Jason Queally raced into the Olympic record books to became the nation's latest sporting hero this week.

The 30-year-old former market trader from Caton scooped a surprise gold in the men's 1,000m time trial at the Millennium Olympics in Sydney - smashing the Olympic record.

And he helped secure silver in the 750m team sprint the following day - the first Brit to win silver and gold since Seb Coe in the 1984 games.

An overwhelmed Jason, who studied at Lancaster University, is now trying to adjust to his new role as a national hero.

"I'm totally shocked," he said. "I can't quite believe it, I'm speechless. Both my medals are down to hard work and the support I have had from my coach, my friends and my family."

Born and brought up in Caton, he studied biological sciences at Bailrigg and only took up cycling five years ago after getting on his bike for the regular trip to the university.

He said: "I lived seven miles from the university and used to commute everyday which made me think I was capable of competing. I am overwhelmed to find myself in this position now. I still can't actually believe it - it will take some time to sink in."

Jason, who now lives in Clayton-le-Woods near Chorley, used to be a member of Lancaster Cycling Club and was an instant hit after notching up an astonishing time in a trial at Salt Ayre. His natural ability has attracted the attention of national coaches and he won gold and silver at the cycling World Cups. But the Olympic victory against red-hot favourite Aussie, Shane Kelly, and French world record holder, Arnaud Tournant, came out of the blue. British Olympic team manager, Peter Keen, admitted: "I am stunned, completely surprised."

Thirteen members of his family, including girlfriend Vikki Pike, were in Sydney to cheer him on to victory.

Group leaders at the council are to discuss a proposal to name the new cycle and footbridge over the River Lune - the Jason Queally Bridge. The idea has been circulated to councillors and many think it would be a fitting tribute to the local sporting hero. One councillor said: "Jason was inspired to take up cycling by travelling everyday from Caton to the University. The new bridge and cycle network links these places and I think it would be very fitting to name it after a double Olympic medal winner. I'm sure Jason would be happy to support it and he could be invited to open the new bridge."