The school visit was followed by the event in Dolgellau’s Eldon Square, where crowds had gathered despite the persistent rain.

Most of the supporters were local, but some had travelled significant distances to be at the event.

When Elfyn Evans spoke from the podium, he thanked his family for supporting him throughout his career, saying his grandfather had “taught me to drive probably far too early”.

Wyn Williams from Llanrwst and Neil Pringle from Betws-y-Coed were in Sardinia when Evans clinched the championship.

Williams said the celebration was “the icing on the cake after being in Sardinia”.

Pringle added that the evening was “fantastic” and that the first minister’s presence “shows what this means to Wales”.

“This is for Elfyn, his family and the country.”

Heledd Edwards travelled from Talerddig to Dolgellau and described Elfyn’s perseverance as an inspiration.

Several members of Elfyn’s family were also in the crowd. His aunt, Lowri Edwards, had travelled from Glan Conwy, saying she was immensely proud to have a world champion in the family.

“We’re absolutely thrilled, to be honest. He’s come so close and been terribly unlucky, finishing second five times – we’re absolutely thrilled.”

Dolgellau Town Council helped organise the celebration, with Deputy Mayor Nia Wyn Evans, saying: “We are absolutely thrilled and delighted to be able to welcome Elfyn back as a world champion; there’s a real buzz in the town.”