Closing Ceremony Dazzles 80,000 Spectators

Spectators at the Olympic closing ceremony were left awestruck as 16 days of Olympic action were brought to an end in spectacular fashion.

The capacity crowd looked on in awe during the three-hour musical celebration, and the event was one of the top trending topics on Twitter for hours.

Patricia Rowe, 60, from Bolton, said: "I am speechless. It was very sad, the extinguishing of the flame - it put a tear in my eye.

"I just don't think it could be topped. Everything from start to finish was wonderful. We feel like we are part of history now."

Her daughter Rebecca Rowe, 31, said: "We didn't know where to look. I think we've set such a good example for the next Games.

"Take That were great, and the fireworks. Gary Barlow was so brave coming out. It made us cry because we're properly soft."

Will Lashley, originally from West Virginia in the United States but now living in West Hampstead, North London, said: "I loved all of the music, it was terrific.

"My two favourite moments were seeing Eric Idle surrounded by a crowd of Bollywood dancers and looking completely flummoxed, and then the Brazilians coming on and psyching everyone up for the next Olympics.

"I am very, very proud to say that I live in London after seeing what a great job we have done with the Olympics. I am very, very happy to be here."

Twitter reaction was mixed, with some saying it did not live up to the standards set by Danny Boyle’s opener.

Some of those who starred in it also took to the micro-blogging site to express their delight at being a part of the spectacle.

Model Jourdan Dunn tweeted: "Highlight of my career so far, feel so honoured."

Victoria Beckham wrote: "We did it!! I love you girls so much!!!!!", while fellow Spice Girl Mel B said: "Soooo much fun!"

Dame Kelly Holmes wrote: "The best part I the night (for me) so far... The Spice Girls... Love them ha ha that was brilliant!"

Many bemoaned the extinguishing of the flame as the symbol of the Games coming to an end.

Sir Chris Hoy said: "If they don't put the flame out, the Games won't be over. Someone stop them!!"

Police were keen to emphasise that the Games passed without major incident away from the field.

Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison, National Olympic Security Coordinator, said: “This has been an absolutely fantastic Olympic Games, with the focus entirely on the sport which is exactly how we wanted it.

"Officers are human too and we also got swept up in Olympic fever. The sport has been magnificent and we have marvelled at the fantastic performances of the athletes."