TWO of the proudest people at last night’s homecoming celebration were Mr Parks’ parents, Lee and Derek.

Every time he scaled a mountain or reached a pole, they would be the first people he would call, at their home in Ridgeway, Newport. Mrs Parks said the couple have never “truly relaxed” while their son has been on the challenge.

His parents travelled to Heathrow Airport on Saturday to welcome their son back from his final expedition, and it was always them who would drop him off at the airport before he departed for his next challenge.

Mrs Parks said: “All three of us are still in shock but we’re extremely proud parents, this is an amazing achievement and Richard has always made us proud.

The last 18 months have been very difficult but tonight is something very special. It’s an amazing reception. I thought he was going to shed a tear, he really choked up.”