Mandela arrives ahead of birthday bash

Updated 07.43 Mon Jun 23 2008
Keywords: Hyde Park, Winehouse, Mandela

Nelson Mandela has arrived in Britain ahead of a star-studded concert in London's Hyde Park to commemorate his 90th birthday.

The June 27 gig will feature an assortment of music acts, including Queen, Razorlight and several African artists.

But there will be an element of sadness for the former South African president and veteran anti-apartheid activist, who has previously stated this will be his final visit to the UK

But there will be an element of sadness for the former South African president and veteran anti-apartheid activist, who has previously stated this will be his final visit to the UK.

The concert line-up will be dominated by a notable diva presence, with songstresses Annie Lennox, Leona Lewis, Sugababes and Dame Shirley Bassey set to appear.

Amy Winehouse, who is also due to perform, is a major worry for the night, amid fears that she has contracted tuberculosis.

Mr Mandela will be in fine company at the bash, with former US President Bill Clinton, Gordon Brown, Will Smith, Oprah Winfrey, Robert De Niro, Forest Whitaker and Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton all expected to attend.

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