Glenn, 26, scored the final goal to help the team to a 5-2 victory to finish off their campaign.


His father, John Kirkham, of Marine Drive, Sutton on Sea, is very proud of his son's achievement.


He said: "They have done really well. Glenn has an edge of disappointment because they were so close to slightly better results, especially against Canada, Holland and Australia.


"I think if he was told before the tournament they would get fifth place he would not have believed it. They exceeded all expectation."


He added: "Glenn doesn't get many goals but it is easy for me to say he played well."


The victory over the Koreans was the team's first since 1990 and their top five finish gives them automatic entry into the World Hockey Champions' Trophy.


Glenn's hopes of a medal faded when the team were held to a 3-3 draw by defending Olympic champions Australia in their final group game, but the experience is one he will never forget.


Mr Kirkham added: "Glenn thoroughly enjoyed being in Beijing. He was mixing with the NBA teams and Roger Federer, who were all in his area, and being with them was a massive lift for him."