Thousands Greet Andy Murray In Dunblane

He's not usually known for his warm smile and cheer, but Andy Murray couldn't stop grinning as he went on a walkabout in his home town of Dunblane.

Thousands of Murray fans lined the streets to welcome their local hero back home as the US Open and Olympic champion shook hands and signed autographs, looking more relaxed than ever.

Murray's grandmother, Shirley Erskine, described her grandson's US Open victory as a milestone in his professional career, getting "the monkey off his back" in his desperation to win a grand slam.

Judging by the laughter and warmth from Murray at today's homecoming she was right - the transformation in his demeanour was clear for all to see.

He was in no rush, this was his homecoming and he took hours to sign autographs and thanked so many fans for their loyal support.

Eileen McGlynn from Stirling, who met Andy on the parade and got his autograph, told Sky News: "He was just full of smiles and looked so happy.

"I think the combination of finally getting a Grand Slam title under his belt and then this, the support he's got today from his home town, must be just so emotional for him."

Along the narrow, winding High Street, bedecked with bunting, union flags and saltires, thousands of Murray fans chanted: "Let's go Andy, let's go," as he walked by laughing and joking with the crowds.

An hour before he arrived the heavens opened, soaking the crowds, but even the Dunblane rain failed to dampen spirits. The crowd's support and enthusiasm was unrelenting - rather like the downpour.

Murray posed for photographs at the golden post box, specially painted after his Olympic gold medal win, before heading to the tennis courts at Dunblane Sports Club where his tennis journey began as a child all those years ago.

Andy and his younger brother Jamie used to play tennis at the club as small children, taught by their mother and former Scotland tennis coach, Judy Murray.

Andy and Judy took time out to put some young Murray hopefuls through their paces with a spot of mini tennis.

While chatting to local children at Dunblane Sports Club and signing yet more autographs, Andy described the homecoming as an emotional experience.

He told Sky News: "Everyone has been just so amazing, it's been such an incredible day."

Before saying goodbye to his home town Andy was told he is likely to be honoured with the freedom of the city of Stirling, an accolade he will treasure alongside his Grand Slam trophy and double Olympic medals.