BBC NEWS | In Pictures | In pictures: Opening day at Westfield

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14:18 GMT, Thursday, 30 October 2008

In pictures: Opening day at Westfield

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The largest inner city retail outlet in Europe opened its doors today in west London.

Crowds of shoppers watch entertainment

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Huge crowds had gathered to watch the many live events that marked the occasion.

A young man uses an electronic map to find shop list

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More than 265 retailers, 50 food and drink outlets at situated across the 43 acre site.

Mother and VIP host

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Many VIP hosts were in attendance to guide special guests around the shopping maze.

Danni Minogue signs and autogrpah in the NEXT store

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Celebrities such as Dannii Minogue also made appearances drawing yet more crowds for photos and autographs.

Young girls holding ballons while window shopping in Westfield

Young girls holding ballons while window shopping in Westfield

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Young shoppers were treated to free balloons while adult guests could indulge in the odd glass of champagne.

Archictural design within the building

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Dramatic lighting, glass canopy structures and various atriums enhance the shopping experience.

Glass chandeliers with atmospheric ligthing

Glass chandeliers with atmospheric ligthing

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Over 7000 jobs have also been created although the complex still awaits completion - a cinema, gym and spa are planned for 2009.

Shoppers reflected in in window dsilpay

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More than 21 million people are expected to visit Westfield in a year, today proved ideal for window shoppers.

Shoppers at Westfield

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A series of opening events will continue through the week in what has already been described as an "iconic building".

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Related to this story:
Inside giant new shopping centre (30 Oct 08 | Business )
If you build it, how do you make them shop? (30 Oct 08 | Magazine )