WEST Devon Borough Council worker Robert Plumb could not be more proud of his stepson, Zac Purchase, who gave his all to win a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympics.

Robert, who works as a regeneration officer at the council's Kilworthy Park offices in Tavistock, was at Eton Dorney lake to watch Zac and his rowing partner Mark Hunter defend their Olympic gold, won at Beijing in 2008.  

The pair were only just pipped at the post by the Danish team in the dramatic final of the lightweight men's double sculls.

Robert said: 'The boys were heart-broken but they had given their all and nobody could deny them their silver-lining. I am a very proud stepdad and wish them well in whatever challenge lies ahead.

'Does the road to Rio start here? We shall see!'

After the thrilling final at Eton Dorney, Zac and Mark collapsed with exhaustion and disappointment near the lakeshore and were comforted by the Olympic legend, Sir Steve Redgrave, who abandoned his broadcasting duties to help the rowers.