About this programme

The 30th Olympiad reaches a spectacular conclusion in the traditional closing ceremony, live from the Olympic Stadium in the East End of London. After 16 days of tense and exciting competition that will live long in the memory, the athletes can now relax as their achievements are recognised and celebrated in spectacular fashion. Beginning at 9.00pm, and featuring more than 4,000 performers - including 3,500 volunteers - the show is entitled A Symphony of British Music, and celebrates one of the nation's greatest cultural exports over the past 50 years. Produced by artistic designer Kim Gavin, with music direction by 007 composer David Arnold, the performance is rumoured to feature appearances by chart stars past and present, and although specific details are being kept strictly under wraps, names being mentioned include Adele, Take That, the Who, One Direction and the Spice Girls. The concert is followed by the appearance of the athletes who say their farewells en masse, not divided by country, a way of bringing the competitors together as `one nation'. London mayor Boris Johnson then takes the stage for the official handover to Rio de Janeiro, hosts of the 2016 Olympic Games, before the chairman of the International Olympic Committee declares the Games closed and the flame is extinguished. Presented by Gary Lineker and Sue Barker, with commentary by Huw Edwards, Hazel Irvine and Trevor Nelson.