HUNDREDS of people were at Hallhill yesterday evening (Tuesday), as sprint ace Maria Lyle returned home from the Paralympic Games.

Lyle, who won a silver and two bronze in Brazil, was cheered on by hundreds of well-wishers.

The event to mark the achievements of the former Dunbar Grammar School pupil was organised by Andrea Kelly. 

Her son David Armstrong was one of three teenagers killed in a crash near Tyninghame in November 2013.

Andrea donated £1,000 to help Maria from the David Armstrong Memorial Fund, and was thrilled to see a huge turnout at Hallhill.

An emotional Andrea told the Courier: "I'm absolutely delighted - it's overwhelming to see the people here.

"I came up with the idea on Saturday, and I've been working so I've only had a few hours to put it together.

"Maria said she was running for David, and I am so proud of her."

Maria tweeted: "Thank you to everyone who surprised me at my homecoming yesterday!

"I'm so lucky to come from an amazing wee town."