Josh Taylor, the Commonwealth Games gold medal hero of the summer, has gone under the knife last month in a bid to clear up a long-term hand injury.

The Prestonpans boxer, a star of the Glasgow Games as he clinched gold on a dramatic day of boxing success for the host nation, underwent the operation to repair a damaged joint in his left hand.

The 24-year-old had a bone graft taken from his hip to repair the joint, and had previously confirmed to Courier Sport that he was likely to miss the remainder of the calendar year as he recovered.

However, Taylor took to social media to reassure friends, family and fans that the procedure had been a success.

He said: “Big thank you to everyone for your kind messages and comments of support. I really appreciate it.

“As far as I know my operation went well. My hand and hip are in a bit of pain, and badly swollen, but at least that’s the hardest bit done.

“Hopefully I will be back in no time.

“Thanks again everyone your support is second to none.” Surgery is set to have brought down the curtain on a hugely successful 12 months for the county star, who can put the Amateur Boxer of the Year title, awarded to him by the Boxing Writers’ Club of Great Britain, alongside his Commonwealth Games gold medal.

And he was also named the county’s Sports Person of the Year at East Lothian Council’s Celebrating Sport Awards, where his achievements in the ring in Glasgow saw off several other Commonwealth Games medallists as he claimed the title.

Taylor will continue his rehabilitation with the Great Britain team in Sheffield, with a view to returning to action in the New Year.