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| Mohamed Al Fayed and Charlotte Church at Harrods |
I arrived at Harrods main entrance at 8:15 am, in plenty of time for the opening due just before 9:00 am. A crowd of sale goers were gathering either side of the doors, in front of which a temporary stage had been erected for the proceedings.
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| The
Press Photo Position |
I stood directly opposite the stage, behind a barricaded area reserved for the press. A small brass band was entertaining the crowds and Harrods staff handed out free hot drinks and biscuits.
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| The
band entertains the crowds |
At around 8:50 a horse drawn carriage appeared round the corner and approached the stage. Charlotte was sitting, waving and smiling at the crowd. One report says opera singer Filippa Giordano accompanied her. I must admit, I don't remember this part!
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| Mohamed talks to Charlotte (not audible) |
The two singers were introduced to the crowd and Filippa sang an aria.
Charlotte and Mohamed Al Fayed (the owner of Harrods) stood patiently on the stage.
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| The
the host introduces the stars |
I didn't take too many pictures as I was saving my film for what I assumed was coming next - a performance from Charlotte. However, as soon as Filippa finished, it was announced that they were to retire inside to meet the press. The crowd were let in a few minutes later but I had no luck in tracking down where Charlotte and Co. had gone.
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| Charlotte waits |
...and
waits |
.....and
waits |
Needless to say, Charlotte looked as radiant as ever and managed to smile through what must have been a strange few minutes for her as she waited on the stage. I had not seen her so close before and can assure you the photos did not do her justice.
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| Charlottes carriage and the crowds |
Both the radio news this morning, and TV bulletins this evening, focused only on Charlotte when they were covering the event - this is clearly who the public wanted to see. I'm glad I did.
- Mark
Editors
Note: Big thanks goes out to Mark for these exclusive shots.
He's been a viewer since February!
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