Elton John has opened the historic memorial concert for Diana, Princess of Wales at London's Wembley Stadium on July 1, 2007 with a rendition of "Your Song".

Up to 63,000 music fans joined hosts Princes William and Harry at the gig, intended to celebrate Diana's life, on what would have been her 46th birthday.

The princes, on stage to introduce Duran Duran, said the concert was about "all that our mother loved in life". It is 10 years since the princess died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997.

Huge cheers greeted Elton who performed in front of a giant photograph of Diana by Mario Testino. He was expected to close the ceremony with a rendition of Candle in the Wind, which he famously reworked for Diana's funeral at Westminster Abbey, but actually finished the show with "Are Your Ready For Love". He was due to play "Crocodile Rock" but was forced to end early after glitches with equipment on stage.

"This evening is about all that our mother loved in life - music, dance, her charities and her family and friends," said Prince William, 25. Meanwhile Prince Harry paid tribute to fellow soldiers currently serving in Iraq.

The six-hour show was being broadcast to 140 countries, with proceeds from ticket sales going to charitable causes favoured by the princess. Police urged music fans to arrive early at the stadium amid tight security, in the light of the recent attacks on London and Glasgow.

About 450 officers were on duty at the event, Scotland Yard said, with ticket-holders advised to take the minimum amount of items with them, and be vigilant.

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