Southampton was transformed into a whirlwind of excitement as thousands descended upon The Mall shopping centre for a glimpse of pop sensation Peter Andre. The usually bustling shopping hub was turned into a sea of screaming fans, young and old, united by their adoration for the Australian-born singer.

A scene reminiscent of Beatlemania unfolded as more than 1,000 people, from toddlers to grandmothers, packed into the shopping centre on June 19, 2010.

Many had staked out their positions in the early hours of the morning, their dedication to meeting the star unwavering despite the chilly pre-dawn temperatures.

(Image: Echo)

As the day progressed, the crowd swelled, creating a tidal wave of humanity that threatened to engulf the shopping centre.

At its peak, the frenzy reached fever pitch. Police officers and security personnel were deployed to manage the overwhelming enthusiasm, forming a human barrier to prevent the crowd from surging forward uncontrollably.

Shoppers were caught in the crossfire, their leisurely shopping trips abruptly interrupted by the pandemonium. For a time, The Mall seemed to grind to a halt as all eyes were focused on the heartthrob within.

(Image: Echo)

Peter Andre spent more than two hours in The Perfume Shop, patiently meeting and greeting his adoring fans.

With each autograph and posed photograph, the crowd’s fervour intensified.

The singer, visibly touched by the outpouring of affection, expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of his British fans. He shared a heartwarming anecdote about his mother, who had been moved to tears by the overwhelming response at a recent book signing.

(Image: Echo)

A serpentine queue, stretching from the depths of the shopping centre to the bustling streets outside, bore witness to the extraordinary popularity of the singer.

Young children, their faces painted with hopeful anticipation, stood side-by-side with pensioners, their eyes sparkling with a youthful exuberance. It was a testament to Peter Andre’s broad appeal that he could unite generations in such a euphoric display of fandom.

The day will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of those who were there, a snapshot of a time when pop culture collided with everyday life, creating an unforgettable spectacle for fans and onlookers.