Becky Adlington’s Glasgow tears draw support from fans

Rebecca Adlington has faced unconscionable abuse since rising to prominence as one of the greatest swimming talents Great Britain has ever produced. Derided for her emotional, honest personality, decision to pursue a career in the media and – most objectionably – her looks, Adlington puts up with far more than any Olympic hero should be forced to endure. Her strength of character shines through in her presenting for the BBC at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, though. Engaging, charming and fun, she shows a great deal more enthusiasm than some of her colleagues during coverage of the World Cup in Brazil. Adlington, 25, may well have finally won over the British public though, after weeping following Adam Peaty’s 100m breaststroke victory in the pool. The double Beijing Olympic champion was overcome with emotion, tears and mascara streaming down her face. You’d have to possess a heart of stone not to be moved by her reaction. Becky wasn’t helped by being sat next to the pristine Mark Foster, a man so immaculate in his presentation that he has been the face (and body) of several health and fitness brands. But, judging by the evening’s reaction on Twitter, she was the hero of the hour. Of course it wasn’t the first time she has wept on TV, having done so after winning her bronze medal at the London Olympics two years ago.