New gymnastics world champion Rhys McClenaghan has thanked star of the screen Jimmy Nesbitt for taking a punt on him.
McClenaghan, 23, won gold on the Pommel Horse in Liverpool on Saturday, having previously topped the podium in the Commonwealths and the Europeans four years ago. His victory is Ireland's first ever success at world level.
Having received a hero's welcome at Dublin Airport yesterday, the Newtownards man will return home to family and friends later today.
READ MORE: Emotional Rhys McClenaghan claims World Championship gold in Liverpool
The star of current BBC thriller Bloodlands, Nesbitt through his film production company G&H Films offered his financial support to McClenaghan when they met at the Mary Peters Trust a few years back.
And the 57-year-old TV star was in touch after the gymnast's latest and greatest triumph.
"Yeah, he sent his congratulations and said he's very proud," said McClenaghan. "It shows the kind of support that's back home and he just does this for the love of sport as well.
"I'm very grateful for all of the support outside of the financial aspect of things, just having people show up at the airport was great.
"And in Liverpool, there were so many Irish flags around that arena, walking away I just turned back and took in the whole of the arena and took it all in.
"It's something I won't forget.
Apart from financial support from Sport Ireland and Sport NI, McClenaghan is also backed by Gym + Coffee, Lidl, Avonmore Protein and Quattro.
"There's a lot of opportunities out there, and hopefully I'll take those opportunities," he added.
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