SHOPPERS were swept into a seasonal mood in Hedge End as schoolchildren serenaded them with Christmas carols.

Hundreds of youngsters from junior and infant schools in the Hedge End and Fair Oak areas were at the Sainsbury's and Marks and Spencer superstores in Tollbar Way.

For three hours they performed a repertoire of yuletide favourites to cheer customers as they went about their Christmas shopping.

It also marked the finale for Autism Awareness Year.

Pupils were asked to help promote the Hampshire Autistic Society and the services provided to the ever-growing number of people coping with the disability.