The 25-year-old Grand Slam champion was given a hero's welcome in the Perthshire town yesterday when he made a triumphant return to where he took to the sport as a youngster.

Thousands of people stood for hours despite rain showers, chanting his name and waving Scottish flags and homemade placards as they waited for Britain's No1 tennis star to arrive.

They were rewarded for their patience, with Murray signing as many autographs as possible as he slowly walked along through the town.

The champ also took time to take part in a knockabout with youngsters at his old tennis club.

Murray, who was returning to the UK days after beating Novak Djokovic to win the US Open, said: "I had no idea what to expect, so to see so many people show up and show such support and hang around for so long in the rain and cold weather was unbelievable.

"Over the last week I haven't been thinking about tennis much. I've just been relaxing and I'll get back onto the court in the next few days.

"I'd hope that from winning the US Open I've gained confidence and I need to try to keep the momentum until the end of the year.

"I've got to go to London tonight but I spent some time with my mum last night and I had a nice lunch with my dad and I saw my grandparents before this.

"It's great to see them."

Locals were also celebrating Murray's Olympic gold medal feat after the Scot beat Roger Federer to take the title at the London 2012 Games.

Cameron Reid-Thomas, 11, from Dunblane, was among those who waited to welcome the champion.

He said: "We're Andy's biggest fans, we all came here to see him and say 'well done'.

"It's huge for all his fans to see him back here. He doesn't get back often as he's always training and playing tournaments."

Johnathan Beher, aged seven, of Dunblane, said: "Andy's my hero, I want to be just like him."

Murray's hometown visit came as top cyclist Sir Chris Hoy took part in Edinburgh's Olympic homecoming, where he received the freedom of the city.