A TOWN centre shopping centre was invaded by a fundraising flash mob, belting out a selection of Queen songs.

Unsuspecting shoppers heard an announcement at the Royals Shopping Centre on Southend High Street calling for “Freddie to Meet Mercury” before members of the singing group began to emerge from shops and cafes.

The Funky Voices choir then gathered in a horse-shoe shape outside TK Maxx for an energetic ten-minute performance of popular Queen songs.

As soon as they finished the last note, they parted and continued to browse the shops.

Choir member Tracey Strit-ten, from Benfleet, said “We were so excited because it is the first time we have done a flashmob, so we were very pleased to take part.

“It was all just so lively and enthusiastic. We were dancing and head banging, and children were all getting involved and dancing along too.

“It was really hard just to act normal though. We were sat there having a coffee and a sandwich and then all of a sudden we heard our cue and got up and started singing a Queen compilation. It was just brilliant and for such a good cause.”

Shopper Marie Holsom, 32, said: “It was a fantastic bit of entertainment and a real surprise. It was lovely to see.”

The surprise event was all in aid of Southend Hospital’s Bosom Pals Appeal on the Road, which the Essex choir were keen to help raise money and awareness for.

In a bid to bring breast screening to as many women as possible, the appeal hopes to raise £500,000 for hi-tech mobile equipment.

For more information on the Funky Voices choir, visit www.funkyvoices.co.uk