DOWNTON STARS ALIGN FOR FINALE

World premiere signals the end of an era for the cast - and the start of a new one for Michelle Dockery and her husband

- REPORT: SALLY MORGAN & NICKY MORRIS

The stars of Downton Abbey took to the red carpet for the last time at the world premiere of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, in front of a legion of loyal fans who had turned out to bid them a fond farewell.

After torrential rain stopped in time for the cast's glittering arrival at the Odeon Luxe in London's Leicester Square, Michelle Dockery took centre stage with a big surprise.

Wearing a stunning pastel blue off-the-shoulder Prada gown, complete with a flowing chiffon cape with crystal embroidery, the actress, 43, who plays Lady Mary Crawley, debuted her burgeoning baby bump.

Beaming by her side was her husband of two years, Jasper Waller-Bridge, 37, the brother of the actress, writer and director Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

Reflecting on the poignant end of an era, she said: "It's so bittersweet for us. We've been doing this for 15 years. It's been such a huge part of our lives, but it feels like it's come to its natural end. It feels like the right time.

"It's hard to say goodbye, but all of us we're so close, we know we'll be seeing each other regularly."

Michelle also praised the "incredible gowns" in this film, describing them as her favourites, and "the best they've ever had".