Keely Hodgkinson post-box topper created to show Atherton's support

With a passion for knitting and creativity, Debbie Smith often creates post-box toppers throughout the year to help brighten the local community.

One of the designs she worked on included the crochet poppy memorial on Elliott Street in Tyldesley, and last month she created a design to show support for Keely Hodgkinson ahead of her Olympic journey.

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Debbie's Olympic design (Image: Debbie Smith)
A self-taught knitter, it took Debbie four days to complete the creation, which she worked on while looking at a newspaper photograph of Keely.

Adding in some Olympic medals, the iconic Olympic rings, and the Eiffel Tower, Debbie installed the design on top of a post-box in Atherton in late July.

Debbie, who has worked at local primary and high schools as well as at Tyldesley Swimming Club, said: "I make toppers throughout the year to brighten the town.

"I love to support our inspiring youngsters and wanted to show Keely how much the town is behind her. 

"The whole community has fully got behind my topper design. It's helped them to express their support for Keely too, with over 1000 comments and likes.

"Her mum has seen it and sent a picture to Keely who said she loved it.

"It has shown all the support from local towns for Keely, who will hopefully get her the gold medal she's worked so hard for. Go Keely Go!".

Great Britain and Olympic flags showing the support for Keely in Atherton (Image: Debbie Smith)
Following the huge response to the post-box topper, Debbie, 58, also appeared on BBC Radio Manchester to showcase her design, where she highlighted all the Great Britain and Olympic flags around Atherton that are showing support for Keely.

After finishing first in the first round and semi-finals, Keely will race in the women's 800m final tonight (Monday, August 5), at 8.45pm.