Sir Bradley Wiggins announced his retirement from professional cycling with a nod to Kilburn , where he was raised.

The British medallist who aced the world famous Tour de France and won eight Olympic medals, referred to himself as the "kid from Kilburn" who has lived a 16 year dream.

He said in a statement: "Cycling has given me everything and I couldn't have done it without the support of my wonderful wife Cath and our amazing kids.

"2016 is the end of the road for this chapter, onwards and upwards, 'feet on the ground, head in the clouds' kids from Kilburn don't win Olympic Golds and Tour de Frances'. They do now."

Sir Bradley Wiggins of Great Britain and Team John Saey - Callant in action during the final day of the 76th 6 Days of Gent race at t'Kuipke Track Velodrome in 2016 (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

The northwest London sportsman said he has worked with the best people and ridden alongside idols over the decades.

Sir Bradley added: "What will stick with me forever is the support and love from the public through thick and thin, all as a result of riding a pushbike for a living.

"2012 blew my mind and was a gas."

The 'kid from Kilburn' (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The sporting star, nicknamed "Wiggo", was born in Belgium before the family moved to Willesden Green when he was two years old, schooling him in Kilburn.

He entered his first race in 1992 aged 12 in Hayes - the West London Challenge 92.

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