News - London Fashion week was opened at Somerset House today by the Prime Minister's wife Sarah Brown, who has been praised in her own right for suporting British designers. The recent death of British designer Alexander McQueen has cast a shadow over the event, and tribute was paid with speeches and silence.

British Fashion Council Chairman Harold Tillman said: "His impact on London and this international fashion industry has been extraordinary. And he will be sorely missed. I know that we will all remember his incredible achievements and what he did for fashion here in London."

"He proved that this industry and this city is one of opportunity, he left school with one O-Level and, with a good mix of determination, hard work and genius, he became and will remain one of London's leading lights.

"He has inspired so many to follow and establish their own collection and has influenced many designers. To ensure London, his home city, continues to grow as a global fashion centre will be a fitting tribute to this brilliant man."

Tributes include the opportunity to pin messages of condolence on a board at main venue Somerset House, while at Victoria House you can view images from his collections on forty iPod touches attached to a wall. Elsewhere, luxury department store Liberty has dressed a tribute window with a giant Union Jack, a bright blue dress and the words "For McQueen and country".

It should be noted, however, that McQueen has not exhibited at London Fashion Week since 2001, and was not due at this year's either, preferring New York and Paris.