The Doncaster fighter, whose parents are both battling serious illness, overcame home favourite Hwang Kyung-seon, the Olympic and world champion, in their 67kg semi-final, producing an 8-5 win to guarantee herself at least silver.

She was then quickly back in action against China's Yunfei Guo and narrowly took the win on a referee's decision after a close-fought 3-3 final to take the gold medal.

Stevenson, 28, won bronze at the Beijing Olympics three years ago.

Her mother Diane has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, while father Roy has a brain tumour.

The British team were guaranteed a further two medals when Martin Stamper and Jade Jones made it through to the semi-finals in their classes.

Stamper saw off Christopher Dubois of France 11-1 in the quarter-finals to ensure at least a bronze in the men's 67kg category.

And Jones advanced to the 58kg semi-finals when her opponent, Bineta Diedhiou of Senegal, retired hurt in the second round.

Stevenson almost withdrew from the squad after a period she has called the worst of her life.

"I cannot describe what it's going to mean to my mum and dad," said Stevenson.


"My whole family will be so proud.

"Hopefully, I have given them something to smile about.

"It's just an amazing feeling."

Britain's performance director Gary Hall added: "It was a very special performance.

"Sarah had been the most proactive fighter but you never know which way these verdicts will go.

"And China are one of the big players in the sport.

"But credit to the referee for giving the decision the right way.

"Sarah was in bits after the final and understandably so.

"However, her family can be so proud of her."


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August 2009: British Taekwondo Champs kick off with gold for Stevenson
June 2009: Stevenson to return to action for first time since Beijing