GLASGOW 2014 hero Frankie Jones thanked the Welsh public for their ‘phenomenal’ support at the official homecoming for Team Wales at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.

The rhythmic gymnastics star, who won an incredible six medals at the Commonwealth Games, has now retired from competing and is focusing her energy on encouraging the next wave of Welsh talent.

But the 23-year-old says the memories of Glasgow will stay with her forever and last night’s celebration brought it all flooding back.

“The fans were amazing in Glasgow,” said Jones, who won five silvers and one gold.

“The support we had was phenomenal and I’ve never performed in an atmosphere like that before so we were incredibly lucky.”

Jones, whose proud father Colin hails from Pontypool, was also chosen as the Team Wales flag bearer for the opening ceremony and won the David Dixon Award at the closing ceremony as the outstanding athlete of the Games.

“I was very lucky to win so many medals and the closing ceremony was incredible,” she added.

“I didn’t know anything about it until I was pulled out of the ceremony and nobody else knew so it was a big shock.

“I didn’t have much time to think about it but it was a great honour for me.

“I couldn’t have dreamed that I’d be up for an award like that so I was very pleased.”

Jones admits she is still getting used to her new life after hanging up her hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon and sparkly leotard.

“Life has been pretty different for me since Glasgow,” she said.

“Not training every day has been a big shock to the system and whenever I get a day when I’m not doing anything I end up in the gym because that’s what I’m used to.

“Every so often I look back at the pictures and at my medals on display and smile because it’s easy to forget that it all happened.

“I’m getting used to speaking to the media now and I was involved in the BBC Tumble show, which was great.

“I’m also doing a bit of coaching and I start a degree in sports conditioning, rehab and massage at Cardiff Met in a few weeks so that will keep me busy.

“I’ve already done a coaching course and I have more to do and I hope to help the next generation of Welsh gymnasts come through.

“Laura Halford has got the world championships coming up and I was able to give her a bit of guidance and tell her what to expect,” she added.

“It is different being on the other side but it’s good to be able to pass on all that I’ve learned over the years.”