"i'll be back with the gold next time."

That was the pledge from Bury's sporting wonderkid Amir Khan as more than 2,000 people turned out to cheer his Olympic feat on Saturday.

The 17-year-old boxing hero travelled on an open-top bus from his home in Heaton on Saturday morning for a civic reception at Bolton Town Hall.

Attired in his Great Britain tracksuit, he wore a beaming smile as he waved to the packed crowds who gathered with union jacks, banners and even boxing gloves.

Amir was joined on the bus by up to 50 family and friends, including father Shah and Bury Boxing Club coach Mike Jelley, who had groomed his talent from the age of11.

As he emerged on to the town hall steps clutching his silver medal, the crowd erupted to the music of Queen's "We Will Rock You".

He was then joined by his family, including his tearful mum, Falak, who was overwhelmed at the reception for her son.

Amir thanked the crowd, saying: "I appreciate all your support, and thank you for getting out of your beds to come and see me.

His father Shah said: "We did not expect this sort of reception. When we set off on the bus, people were waving and shouting and it was incredible."

Amir's fists will now need a rest -- not just from his exploits in Athens, but from all the autograph signing.

He said: "When we were on the bus, people were even coming out of their homes to see me. It was great. I never expected it. It has been an honour.

"When I got home, the first thing I wanted to do was see my family and put my feet up with a cup of tea and do something normal. I've been to the gym, but have only been hitting the bags and seeing my friends, not proper training. I'm going to take a month or two off now and relax and spend time with my friends.

"I'll be out and about on my driving lessons from next week. If anyone sees me, they should probably stay out of my way.

"Things will get back to normal soon, and you will see me out and about, wandering round town with my friends. I'm just a normal 17 year-old with a life and a lot of friends."

Amir thanked coach Mike Jelley and family and friends for their constant and loyal support.

He presented Mike with the vest he wore in the Olympic final, emblazoned with the message: "Thanks for getting me to the Olympics '04, love Amir."