The former Sheffield University student was part of the three-man team that secured top placing in the

Relay event at the World Orienteering Championships.

Graham Gristwood and Jon Duncan were the other two members who came through against the World's elite in the Czech Republic on Monday.

Gristwood took the first leg and handed over to Duncan in fourth place, just 30 seconds off the pace after 30 minutes of hard running. He in turn caught the leaders and kept ahead of the chasing pack to give Stevenson a first place advantage.

However, the 2003 World Champion, made a small error which saw him slip to third behind the French and Russian but his superior fitness paid off in the end as he clinched golden glory.

Jamie said: "When l neared the end of the race, l could see the Russian and French team just ahead and I knew I could catch them. They just seemed to stand still as l raced passed them, so I knew that my decision to concentrate more on my fitness this year, rather than competing, was the right one.

"It was a dream to win gold as it was a real team effort. It was a surprise to win the Sprint Gold in 2003 but this one was different because l felt we had a real chance of a medal."

If you fancy having a go at orienteering visit www.southyork shireorienteers.co.uk There are lots of courses suitable for beginners.

Pictured: Jamie Stevenson (centre) with GB team-mates Graham Gristwood and Jon Duncan.