Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy takes a flight in an RAF Typhoon

Sir Chris Hoy has taken a flight in a Typhoon at RAF Leuchars to recognise the forces' role in Olympic security.

The 36-year-old six Olympic gold medal winner visited the Fife base on Wednesday.

The jets, which can fly at twice the speed of sound, were based at RAF Northolt in west London to provide air security throughout the Olympic Games.

Sir Chris joined 6 Squadron for the 60-minute flight during a routine training exercise which saw him fly as high as 30,000ft (9,144m).

The cyclist became Britain's most successful Olympian after taking the golds in London but has said it is unlikely he will carry on for a fifth Olympic Games in 2016.

He said: "It was absolutely incredible. It's very difficult to explain just how exciting that was to be up there and what a thrill it was. I feel very privileged to be asked to come here and take part in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"I was in sheer awe of the machinery and how the aircraft operates, and the pilot as well. I'm full of admiration for the skills these guys have.

"A ride in a Typhoon fighter jet, has to be one of the most spectacular experiences I've ever had. Thanks to all at RAF Leuchars."

Asked about his career Sir Chris said: "The dream would be to continue on for two more years (to Glasgow 2014). It's whether my body can continue, whether I'm going to be injury-free and fit enough to continue because there's a very strong team.

"Just to get in the Scottish team is going to be a fight but it would be the ideal way to finish off: a home Olympics and then a home Commonwealth Games. It wouldn't be too bad. I've been very busy since the Games, travelling from place to place, and I've been enjoying not having to worry about training and just letting it all sink in."

The Typhoon is the RAF's multi-role combat aircraft, with crews on stand-by all year round at the Fife base.

Wing Commander Roddy Dennis flew the aircraft with Sir Chris as a passenger up to Orkney and then back down over the Highlands.

Sir Chris took over the controls as the Typhoon travelled just off the coast of St Andrews.

Wing Cdr Dennis said: "It was fantastic. When the opportunity came for Sir Chris to come to Leuchars and for us to take him flying, we didn't want to miss that. He took control and did a loop and was a bit of a natural. With someone like him, with his skill and natural ability, it was great to get him in the back seat."

Sir Chris kissed his wife Sarra when he greeted her after landing back at the base, as well as meeting RAF personnel on the ground.

Earlier he visited the station's youth project for a question-and-answer session with children who were holding an Olympic-themed sports day.

He also met members of the cycling club who took the opportunity to quiz him on his diet and training methods.

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