The curtain fell down on the Games for European Small States yesterday evening as a colourful closing ceremony brought the 11th edition to an end.

It was held at the same venue where the Opening Ceremony was held last Monday, soon after the athletics programme was concluded at the small city stadium nearby.

Athletes from the eight participating countries mingled with each other and one could note that those who were successful and those who were unsuccessful celebrated together in the middle of the park.

Of course the Maltese athletes and officials were among those in the centre of the field.

After the usual concluding speeches by the various personalities, the Urn was put off and the Games flag was lowered.

It was later handed over to the Monaco Olympic Committee general secretary, who was representing Prince Albert, who is the president. He was not present here as the country is still in mourning after the demise of his father (Prince Albert) in April.

Later the contingents continued with their celebrations at a place nearby called The Village where a lavish party was thrown to conclude the edition.

The Maltese contingent will be back in Malta today in two batches. The first back arrives via Rome this morning while the bulk of the contingent is to arrive in the afternoon.