Nelson Mandela memorial service begins, Obama arrives late

A memorial service has begun for Nelson Mandela at an open-air football stadium in Soweto, with rain falling steadily on the crowd that includes family members, world leaders and tens of thousands of South Africans.

The service began, about an hour behind schedule, with a singing of the country's national anthem by a choir and military marching band. Many in the crowd joined in the singing. After a welcome address, there was an inter-faith prayer.

US President Barack Obama received a huge ovation as he arrived an hour late at the emotional memorial service.

Obama and his wife Michelle had arrived at Waterkloof air force base near Pretoria after a 16-hour flight on Air Force One from Washington.

They flew in with former president George W. Bush and his wife Laura, while two other former presidents, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter travelled separately.

Picture above: Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt (L), US President Barack Obama (C) and First Lady Michelle Obama at the memorial service.

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