A FESTIVE flash mob brought crowds to a standstill in a busy shopping centre.

Gliding up the escalator while belting out the opening lines to Higher and Higher, a solo performer was the first sign something special was about to happen at the Cornmill Centre in Darlington on Saturday.

As she ascended, her dulcet tones were joined by others as a choir of 40 gradually emerged from the crowds of Christmas shoppers.

To the joy of those around them, one unexpected shopper after another burst into song and gathered together to form the Darlington SING Community Choir.

Their rendition of Higher and Higher was followed by a performance of festive and familiar tunes, staged to collect funds for St Teresa’s Hospice.

The Cornmill Centre’s security officer Gary Yates was left pleasantly surprised as the scene unfolded in front of him.

He said: “I just started work and came round the corner to see this – it’s helped everyone get into the festive spirit and it’s really nice.”

Jack Harrison, 13, was pleased to see his science teacher at the heart of the action.

He said: “It’s really great and I’m surprised to see her doing something like this.”

Jane Bradshaw, the chief executive of St Teresa’s Hospice, said: “It’s been a wonderful surprise to see the flashmob emerging from the crowds and bringing cheer to Christmas shoppers.

“It’s really heartwarming when people support us like this, especially at Christmas which is a hard time of year for a lot of people.

“It’s particularly touching when people give up their time during a busy season to do something like this and it’s brought so much joy.”

Six-year-old Olivia Bogle added: “I really liked the singing, it helped me get excited for Christmas and was a nice surprise.”