IOC President Jacques Rogge has hailed the Vancouver 2010 Olympics the “excellent and friendly Games”.

Speaking at the Closing Ceremony Mr Rogge congratulated the organising committee VANOC saying “you have done it, you have won”.

“Thank you to the people of Canada, for your generous hospitality, your warmth, and this unique and joyous celebration of Olympism,” Rogge said.

There was praise too for the thousands of volunteers.

Veteran performer Neil Young was one of the many headline acts singing “Long May You Run’ as the Olympic flame was extinguished.

He was followed by actors William Shatner, Michael J. Fox and singers Avril Lavigne and Alanis Morisette.

The flag was then passed to representatives of the Russian resort of Sochi who will host the next Winter Olympic Games in 2014.

Earlier in the night Vancouver exploded in celebration when Canada beat the USA 3/2 in overtime to claim the gold medal in the Men’s Ice Hockey. Hours later the streets were still choked with Canadians celebrating the win.

The Australian Olympic Winter Team finished the Games with a record three medals, two gold and a silver.