In pictures: China mourns

China has begun three days of mourning for victims of the Sichuan earthquake, which has left more than 70,000 people dead, buried under rubble or missing.

In Chengdu, the provincial capital, people held hands to observe a three-minute silence in honour of the victims.

In Beichuan, one of the worst affected towns, the silence was an emotional moment for survivors.

For many, the sense of loss has been overwhelming.

The silence, the first time China has marked an occasion like this for its people, was observed throughout the country.

In Beijing, the event was an opportunity for a display of patriotism, as the crowds shouted "Long live China".

Solemn ceremonies continued into the night, like this candlelit vigil in Chengdu.

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