David Arnold, musical director of the Olympic Closing Ceremony, put on an incredible show this evening (August 12) and managed to encapsulate the best of British music in just a couple of hours.

Following the impressive Opening Ceremony, which was directed by Danny Boyle and included performances from Arctic Monkeys and Sir Paul McCartney, tonight's event was more music-orientated and featured live sets from some of the most loved stars of the UK.

Scottish songstress Emeli Sandé kicked off proceedings with a stunning piano-driven rendition of 'Read All About It', Madness then treated the audience to a rousing version of their iconic hit 'Our House', and the Pet Shop Boys followed with their well-known song, 'West End Girls'.

Heartthrobs One Direction also made an appearance on the back of a flat-bed lorry and sang their chart-topping single 'What Makes You Beautiful' while dressed in coordinating blue and white outfits.

Read about The Spice Girls' Olympic return here.

Ray Davies was in attendance to perform 'Waterloo Sunset' and then Elbow sang 'One Day Like This' to welcome the athletes into the stadium. 'Running Up That Hill' by Kate Bush was used during a segment in which a pyramid was built from blocks although she wasn't present. 

The late John Lennon was honoured as a touching version of 'Imagine' was both performed and signed while a block sculpture was constructed of his face (pictured below). Footage of Lennon was also shown on screens within the arena and Yoko Ono gave permission for it to be remastered and used for the occasion.

Other notable performances came from George Michael, who rocked London with a mini-set of 'White Light' and 'Freedom', Kaiser Chiefs who covered 'Pinball Wizard', and Annie Lennox.

Flame-haired singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran sang 'Wish You Were Here' with a backing band made up from members of The Feeling, Genesis and Pink Floyd.