Pop star Rihanna switched on Stratford Westfield’s Christmas lights last night, amid fireworks as she performed her new single ‘Diamonds’ at the shopping centre.

Rhianna at Westfield

Up to 15,000 fans attended the event to try and catch a glimpse of the 24-year-old star and have a chance to meet her.

The event was in partnership with Westfield’s Christmas charity partner, Save the Children and young ambassadors from the charity helped Rihanna with the countdown to the Christmas lights switch-on.

Westfield general manager of UK marketing Myf Ryan said last night: “Christmas is always such a special time of year for Westfield and we are so excited that Rihanna has chosen Westfield Stratford City to help celebrate the festivities.

“Our shoppers love Rihanna and we are proud to be able to host this unique and exclusive concert for the UK fans.”

The single is from her new album ‘Unapologetic’, which launched in the UK yesterday.

Rihanna’s appearance follows Taylor Swift, another big pop star, who pressed the button on Westfield London’s lights in Shepherd’s Bush last week.