HE was Hampshire’s own Olympic hero, overcoming adversity to stroll off with a gold medal at the age of 38.

Now the grandchildren of legendary long-distance walker Tommy Green have opened up their family archives as the country prepares to host the greatest sporting extravaganza on Earth.

Tommy, who lived for many years in Eastleigh, famously struck gold at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, shrugging off a bout of sunstroke to win by seven minutes. At 38 years and 126 days, he became the oldest ever champion.

Now a major celebration of his achievement is being planned in his home town, culminating in a sports-themed street party on July 15 – just days before London 2012 swings into action.

David Coakes, Sue Sturgess and Cheryl Hookway have produced their grandfather’s Olympic gold medal as well as trophies and certificates for a special exhibition at The Point Theatre in the coming months.

Included in the collection is a cup that Tommy won by beating a German into second place in the presence of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler before the war.

David, who lives in Winchester, said: “Tommy was quite a man and a real hero in these parts. He was like a local celebrity in many ways.

“We are so proud to be able to produce these artefacts and it is fitting that it’s in the Olympic year.

“Hopefully there will be a lot of interest and a great turnout for the event in July.”

Tommy’s achievements were all the more impressive as he suffered from rickets in childhood and was not even able to walk until he was five. And during the First World War he was sent home after a severe gas attack which damaged his lungs.

But a blind friend of his convinced him to take up walking and he repeatedly won the prestigious London to Brighton race before travelling to the USA for his greatest ever performance.

Tommy returned a hero and became a publican in Twyford Road, continuing his passion for boxing and cricket.

He died in March 1975 in Eastleigh, where Tommy Green Walk has been named in his honour.

Dan Hills, from The Point, said: “The idea is to get as much information about Tommy Green’s life as possible in the run-up to July 15. We hope there will be a street party.

“It promises to be a spectacular event.”