In pictures: Kelly's farewell

Holmes made a dramatic helicopter entrance at the Don Valley Stadium but struggled throughout her 800m race.

The double Olympic champion said: "I knew the crowd were behind me and that was a special thing - it was just frustrating I couldn't be on top form."

Holmes refused to rule out defending her Commonwealth 1500m title next year.

She said: ""I'm going to have a scan on Tuesday and decide where to go from there.

"We're not sure yet whether I'll need an operation or not. I'll let that settle and get back into fitness.

"With a clear head, I can then decide on my future and the Commonwealth Games.

"I don't want to make a rash decision. It depends on the leg and where we go from this point.

Sprint stars shine in Sheffield

"It's been emotional all day. I have to thank the British public and my friends and family."

Holmes wore a specially-commissioned black and gold lycra all-in-one body suit and jacket for her farewell.

Her summer has been severely disrupted by a recurring Achilles injury which she picked up in June.

Have Your Say Was Kelly right to run?

The injury forced the 35-year-old to give up her bid to contest the World Championships in Helsinki and her recovery has been slow.

"Had I not got my gold medals, this year would have been devastation," she said.

"But the fact that I have my gold medals reminds me that I was very fortunate that last year came together.

"I gave it my best shot today and I was pretty pleased considering I haven't run any hard sessions.

"The hardest thing is knowing I'm not in good shape and I haven't been on the track for four weeks or put on my spikes.

"To be racing on that track has been my only major goal for the season, for my last home run."