Olympic gold medallist Andy Triggs Hodge returned to work yesterday as his 2012 celebrations took a back seat.

The men’s four oarsman, whose triumph in London gave him successive gold medals, returned to the water after an amazing last few months.

But it did not stop the 33-year-old, who lives in Oxford, reflecting on an incredible year.

Triggs Hodge was named Sportsman of the Year at the 2012 Oxfordshire Sports Awards, declaring himself “extremely proud” to have been chosen as the county’s finest.

Life has been a whirlwind for the Cowley Road resident since his success in London, but he admits he has loved every minute.

“The atmosphere that was created at London with everyone willing you to victory – it was just incredible,” he said.

“When you can show the world what you can do, it is a great feeling.

“But when you can do that in front of a home crowd, it’s even better.

“It is astonishing what this country has achieved and I am delighted, and very proud, to have been part of it.”

Triggs Hodge brought his gold medal to the awards ceremony at the Kassam Stadium, and says that the interest in him – and the medal – since London has been staggering.

“When you get the medal out, you suddenly start to realise what you have done because of the interest and the buzz around it,” he said.

“I never realised that I could be anything in sport when I was younger, but it just goes to show.”

He added: “Oxford is my home and it is an absolute honour to be here and receive this award. I am very proud to have done what I have done.”

However, when asked when celebrations must finish and serious training begins again, Triggs Hodge replied, tongue in cheek: “I have been told by our coach (Jürgen Grobler) that we are starting rowing on Monday so that will be really nice for us. I can’t wait for it.”