Heffernan looking ahead to Rio

Ireland's new world athletics champion, Rob Heffernan, is expected to arrive back at Dublin Airport later to a hero's welcome.

Rob, his wife and coach Marion, and fellow athlete Brendan Boyce will touch down on Irish soil just after 5pm this evening.

Heffernan collected his gold medal last night at the World Athletics Championships in Moscow, following his incredible victory in the 50 kilometre walk on Wednesday.

Irish Team Manager Patsy McGonagle said it is now time to celebrate, but Heffernan will soon be looking ahead to the 2016 Olympics.