GWENT'S lightweight Commonwealth Games boxing champion Jamie Arthur (pictured) says he has a tough decision to make - whether to box at the 2004 Olympics or turn professional.

Arthur returned to a hero's welcome in Cwmbran yesterday.

And while he has to adapt to his new role - including signing plenty of autographs - the 22-year-old says he is going to take some time enjoying his hard-earned fame before deciding whether to turn pro or to stay amateur and box for Britain in Athens.

Arthur said: "Audley Harrison has been asking for my number to get me involved with a few things - but I want to take a few weeks to enjoy the moment."

Scaffolder Arthur says he is not sure yet exactly when or if he will be going back to work but, sporting a colourful black eye from Saturday's final against Zambia's Dennis Zimba, he added: "The black eye will heal soon but the gold medal will be mine now forever."

Arthur became the first Welshman since the great Howard Winstone to win Commonwealth gold after Winstone clinched the bantamweight title in front of his home fans in Cardiff in 1958 and then went on to win the world featherweight title.

After winning the gruelling final in Manchester, Arthur admitted: "I'll never be able to walk in Howard Winstone's shoes but if I can follow in his footsteps, that would be great.

"He is a man who I always loved and respected. I said all along I only wanted gold but this is a dream come true."

Lightweight Arthur suffered a bad cut on the bridge of his nose in his semi-final but despite two stoppages to wipe away the blood, it was never a factor as he clung on for his famous triumph.

But the prize of fighting for Olympic gold is proving a big draw for Arthur and he has a tough choice to make.

He said: "I don't know exactly what's going to happen.

"Things are a bit interesting for me at the moment. There are a lot of things to get used to.

"Obviously, if I turn professional, then I can never go back. I have to go where the money is.

"But I really fancy boxing at the Olympics and it would be a good stepping stone for a professional career."