"The best is yet to come", Barack Obama told America last night as he celebrated the prospect of four more years as United States President.

Thanking voters, he said "You reaffirmed the spirit that has triumphed over war and depression, the spirit that has lifted this country from the depths of despair to the great heights of hope, the belief that while each of us will pursue our own individual dreams, we are one American family, and we will rise and fall as one nation.

"Whether I earned your vote or not, I have listened to you. I have learned from you. And you've made me a better president. With your stories and your struggles, I return to the White House more determined and more inspired than ever about the work there is to do."

Obama also praised his wife Michelle, telling her "I have never loved you more."

Watch his full speech: