The 35-year-old dame made her last track appearance in Britain yesterday at the Norwich Union British Grand Prix in Sheffield, although she could not round off her career with victory as a lack of fitness caught up.

A severe Achilles injury had prevented Holmes from competing since the Norwich Union International in Glasgow in June and her appearance at the start-line of yesterday's 800metres was a triumph in itself, as was the fact she managed to complete both laps as she crossed the line in eighth.

Holmes said: "Had I not got the gold medals then this year would have been devastation but the fact I have got the medals reminds me that I was very fortunate that last year came together and proof of how your body is as an elite athlete.

"Every single thing (came together) - because I was 100% committed, motivated, determined and had my dreams and aspirations last year.

"I was able to get everything right whereas this year is obviously different. Because I have already got my medal that 100% goes to 60-70%, and then the body, which was put through so much last year is bound to break down, but I'd rather have what I had last year than this year."

Holmes, frustrated by untimely injuries for the bulk of her career, had made a dramatic entrance by army helicopter to herald her final appearance on a British track at Don Valley Stadium.

The spectacular started with a flypast by five Blue Eagle Army helicopters, who had been at an airshow near York, before the 'Kellycopter' flew over the arena and landed on the infield.

The former Army PT instructor then appeared and greeted the Union Jack-waving crowd in Sheffield before pyrotechnics formed an avenue of fire, while Tina Turner's 'Simply The Best' was played over the public address with Sports Minister Richard Caborn and the Lord Mayor of Sheffield Roger Davison on hand to make a presentation.

Holmes, who amassed 11 medals at Olympic, world, European and Commonwealth levels in a 12-year international career, admitted the day had been emotional.

"I was really emotional over the last few days here knowing it was going to be my last race - it is something I love to do," said Holmes.

"I was really frustrated and down because I couldn't be at my best but I managed to get unexpectedly around!

"But it is something I will never forget, ever - a big moment."

Holmes has still not ruled out extending her career until the Commonwealth Games in March in order to defend her 1,500m title in Melbourne but is not making a rash decision.

She will have a scan tomorrow to assess the injury which will dictate whether she returns to having intensive treatment in Ireland with Gerard Hartmann, who works on the likes of Paula Radcliffe, or whether she will need an operation on the Achilles.

"Let that settle and get back into fitness and then I need a clear head to make my mind up on my future and the Commonwealth Games," added Holmes.

"I don't want to make an irrational decision with an injury. You just give up on injuries and I am not prepared to do that. I can't make my mind up until that is 100%."