Salute to Wembley's rebirth

A spectacular firework display marked a milestone in the rebirth of the new Wembley stadium and placed the venue at the heart of London's bid for the 2012 Olympic Games.

Tony Blair was joined by England captain David Beckham and coach Sven-Goran Eriksson at the topping out ceremony at the stadium.

But celebrity event was dogged by protests from sacked construction workers angry they were not invited last night.

Wembley's new 133-metre high steel arch has already become one of the prominent sights in the city. The ceremony celebrated the building reaching its full height and also marks the start of England's bid to reach the finals of the World Cup in Germany.

Mr Blair said: "This is the best that there can be, we've done it, here in Britain.

"Let's hope it helps us on our way for a successful bid for the Olympics in 2012. Wembley has a special magic and it is going to be the most spectacular stadium-in the world." But more than 100 workers sacked last week after they were transferred from Co Durham-based Cleveland Bridge to Dutch firm Hollandia/Fast Track picketed the event at Wembley Way.

Electrician Tim Lafferty, 45, said: "We have been treated terribly."