Susan's a signing sensation on trip to the shops

Published on Friday 11 December 2009 09:25

SHOPPERS might expect to see carol singers around the city centre at this time of year.

But customers in Edinburgh's Princes Mall were stunned when they bumped into chart-topping singer Susan Boyle as she browsed for Christmas gifts.

Although the Britain's Got Talent star had simply popped in from her home in Blackburn, West Lothian, to do some shopping, she delighted fans by chatting and signing autographs. She even entertained them by singing part of Wild Horses, one of the songs from her new album.

The 48-year-old former church volunteer visited New Look, Warehouse, Joy and the Body Shop yesterday afternoon. But she found she was too busy talking to fans to do much shopping.

Jemma Tomkins, a supervisor at New Look, was delighted when she recognised her famous customer, who was wrapped up warm in a cream coat and bright orange scarf.

She said: "Susan was lovely. She seemed a little overwhelmed by how popular she was. She really didn't get a chance to buy anything as she got ambushed as soon as she came in.

"She was signing her name on people's backs. She also asked people if they liked her music and she started to sing a few lines. She seemed very happy.

"I was delighted. My mum is a big fan, so as soon as she left I rang to tell her!"

Although Boyle left empty-handed, Ms Tomkins said they would be happy to make special arrangements to allow her some privacy next time.

She said: "She didn't really give us a chance, but we could arrange something if she wants to come back."

Hannah Willis, from Princes Mall, said Boyle's appearance brought shoppers to a standstill. She said: "Susan was great with her fans. She signed autographs and seemed to enjoy the attention.

"We are delighted she chose Princes Mall. It's a shame she didn't come a little later as she would have been entertained by our burlesque dancers. Who knows, she might have joined in!"

This Christmas promises to be very different for the West Lothian singer than last year. Her first album, I Dreamed a Dream, soared to number one in the UK and US charts after it was released last month. She broke records for the album with the highest ever advance sales and has just returned to Blackburn following a successful tour of the United States. Industry experts predict she will make about 8 million from her first year in the spotlight.