ALMOST a year ago Tredegar’s Mark Colbourne was one of the stars of the most successful Paralympic Games in history.

And now the legacy of the paracyclist’s stunning gold medal ride in the men’s individual C1 pursuit at the London 2012 games is set firmly in gold, with an announcement from Royal Mail the celebratory gold postbox in his honour is to be a permanent fixture.

All of Team GB’s gold medalists at last year’s Olympic and Paralympic games were honoured with the gold pillar boxes in their home towns.

Initially it was uncertain what would happen next to the commemorative boxes but Royal Mail has now confirmed it will continue to maintain them including Mark’s on Commercial Street in Tredegar.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: "Mark’s post box was one of 111 across the country painted gold by Royal Mail last year to mark the successes of Team GB and ParalympicsGB at London 2012.

"The box has received a fresh coat of gold paint and has a plaque to permanently remind residents and visitors of the special local link to London 2012.

"111 post boxes were painted gold across the UK. It is believed to be the first time in its history that Royal Mail has permanently changed the colour of some of its iconic boxes to celebrate an historic achievement "The box has received a new coat of paint and has a plaque which details Mark’s fantastic gold medal achievement."

A delighted Colbourne said: "I think it's brilliant the post box is staying gold permanently, as my success at the London 2012 Paralympics and my will to never give up will now stay with generations for many years to come."