8th October 2010 SHANGHAI WARMLY WELCOMES MISS WORLD CONTESTANTS

China’s fashion capital Shanghai welcomed Miss World contestants with a lively evening of music and dance, when they attended a gala reception hosted by civic leaders and dignitaries from Shanghai and Sanya.

After a flight from Inner Mongolia, the girls were ready to party – and Shanghai is a town that can never disappoint in that area.  A feast of top quality Chinese food greeted the contestants, and they returned the honour by mingling with the VIP guests, thanking the people of Shanghai for such a touching welcome.

This event also presented an opportunity for the young women to wear some of their most spectacular evening gowns in a rainbow of silk, chiffon and lace.  En route to the luxury hotel on Shanghai’s famous Pudong waterside district, the contestants were wowed by the cast number of lights and colours from the office blocks, penthouse apartment buildings and hotels.

Northern Ireland said: “We’ve had a ball tonight, literally.  It was good to mix with our hosts and have chance to show them our appreciation for such a welcome.”

Finland added:  “I’ve been looking forward to Shanghai, especially the visit to EXPO, and this has been a touching welcome from the city leaders and organisers of EXPO.  We’ve all had such good fun tonight.”