The family of a Cumbrian Olympian couldn't travel to cheer him on in Tokyo — so they have brought the Games to Carlisle!

Debra Brewer and her husband, Len Miller, are the parents of Carlisle hammer thrower Nick Miller, who is currently in Tokyo representing Team GB in the 2020 Olympics.

To get behind Nick and the team, Debra, Les and their daughter, Rebecca Armstrong, have decked out their house and garden with a variety of Team GB memorabilia, messages of support —and a life-size cardboard cutout of Olympian Nick.

Debra explained why the family has gone all out with Olympic decorations.

She said: “We were meant to go to the Olympics this year, but because of the rules saying that no international spectators could attend, we decided to keep the spirit alive but at home.

“We were up till 4am watching Nick throw, and I was very nervous.

“No one in the house was talking to each other, we were just stuck in silence while we were watching Nick compete.

“He has been incredibly successful, it has just been amazing, we’re very proud of him, but it is incredibly nerve-wracking — although it has to be said that he’s worked hard and dedicated his heart to this and missed a lot of family events, it just shows how dedicated he is."

And there has been plenty of support for Nick.

Debra said: “The neighbourhood has been really supportive as well. We all know each other here very well. Usually we are actually there to see him physically — this is a way to feel that we are involved.

“We don’t talk to Nick because he has to stay in that headspace, but he did text us saying how relieved he felt after his performance.

“He doesn’t need any encouragement, but we are so proud of him.

“We need to get our rest in before we watch him again on Wednesday!”