OLYMPIC star and former Dorchester Athletics Club member Nikki Hamblin admitted it was “overwhelming” to be awarded the Pierre de Coubertin medal from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The prestigious prize signifies those who exemplify sportsmanship as part of the Olympic Games and has only been awarded 17 times previously.

Both Hamblin, who now represents New Zealand, and American Abbey D'Agostino were given the accolade after the touching moment during their women's 5,000m heat in Brazil.

After taking an agonising tumble with D’Agostino, the 28-year-old turned back to help the competitor to her feet and both athletes eventually finished the race.

They embraced on the finish line before the American was helped away in a wheelchair by Hamblin, with what turned out to be a torn right anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus and a strained medial collateral ligament.

An International Olympic Committee statement read: "The D'Agostino and Hamblin story is one of humanity and sacrifice which has already captured the hearts of people across the globe."

Hamblin, who went to Wey Valley School, said: "Winning this award is overwhelming.

"I am proud of what we did and truly believe that you can be both a competitor and kind and responsive at the same time.

"Everyone comes here to compete but there are a lot of people who don't achieve that and the journey is really important too.

"That was one of those journeys and it has gone on to be one of the most important moments of my life."