Murray plans Dunblane celebration

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Murray plans Dunblane celebration

Andy Murray said he cannot wait to get back to his home town and thank fans for their support this weekend.

The 25-year-old will visit Dunblane near Stirling on Sunday to celebrate his golden summer of success with local people.

He returned to the UK on Wednesday after beating Novak Djokovic to win the US Open.

His victory came weeks after he beat Roger Federer to take the Olympic men's title at the London 2012 Olympics.

He said: "I can't wait to get back to Dunblane to where it all began and share my US Open victory with everyone and thank them for all the support.

"It's definitely going to be emotional, but it's a very special place for me."

Murray did not attend Saturday's official victory parade for Scotland's Olympians and Paralympians in Glasgow, having been advised to take a couple of days of complete rest at home after playing continuously for four months.

The US Open champion is expected to arrive in an open-topped bus at noon on Sunday, and then walk through the town towards the Dunblane Tennis Club courts where his journey to sporting success began.

His visit to the town is likely to last around three hours.

He will be greeted by Stirling Provost Mike Robbins, who said: "We're so thrilled that Andy's coming.

"It's always a pleasure to welcome him back, but this time, of course, it's extra, extra special.

"I visited local schools the morning after his US Open triumph, and everyone was just buzzing. The one thing the children wanted was the chance to say 'well done', and now we will all be able to do just that."

Central Scotland Police advised motorists to expect disruption if they plan to visit the town on Sunday.

Some roads will be closed, with no vehicles allowed onto Beech Road or High Street.

Stirling Area Commander Superintendent Gordon Dawson said: "This is a unique event and we anticipate large numbers of people will turn up to see Andy Murray.

"There will be disruption to traffic and our advice is to plan your journey and to allow extra time for it. We encourage those attending to take direction from stewards along the route."