SHOPPERS were taken by surprise today as a "flash bounce" broke out in a busy mall.

In what is believed to be a UK first, volunteers bounced, pogoed, hula-hooped and took to space hoppers in the Washington Galleries to promote the Great North Commute.

The initiative, billed as "putting the fun back into the daily commute" takes place on April 4.

It aims to persuade people to find an active and novel way of getting to work – whether that’s on a space hopper, a unicycle or plain old-fashioned walking.

The event has even got the backing of Nova International, organisers of the Great North Run.

David Newton, managing director of Nova International said; "Busy lifestyles can make finding the time for exercise challenging.

"The Great North Commute is a fun campaign that will encourage more people in the North East to fit activity into their daily routine.

"Many of our runners find that setting yourself a goal, like the Bupa Great North 10k, will help you to stick at it."

Coun James Blackburn, from Sunderland City Council, added: "We need to encourage everyone to consider others ways of travelling and getting out of the car to walk, cycle or even run to work.

"This campaign will help to capture people’s imagination and get us to think more about how we can all help reduce traffic congestion in our communities.

"It can also get some serious messages across about the positive economic, environmental and health impact this would achieve."

To take part, register at www.gosmarter.co.uk.

Prizes are available for those who travel the furthest, find the wackiest mode of travel and who have the most outrageous costumes.