The best ever – that was the verdict on this year’s Hempstead Valley carol concert.

A record crowd of more than 300 filled the mall outside Marks & Spencer in the shopping centre to sing a programme of traditional favourites.

But pride of place went to the choir from Rainham’s Deanwood primary education technology school, which performed its own upbeat versions of Christmas songs.

Later, other children from the audience went on stage to join the choir.

Parents, relatives and guests were welcomed to the concert by the Rev Allan Smith, of the New Life Community Church, Gillingham.

VIP guests were the Mayor and Mayoress of Medway, Cllr David Carr, and his wife, Kirstine.

There were Bible readings by the Rev Richard Hayton from Parkwood Christian Fellowship and the Rev Christopher Ferris, of All Saints, Hempstead, as well as several short readings by youngsters.

Su Button, Hempstead Valley’s marketing executive, said: “It was a really successful concert, with more people in the audience than we have ever had.

“We were all agreed it was the best-ever.”

The concert marked the end of a hectic weekend at the shopping centre, which on Saturday attracted about 27,000 visitors. By Saturday afternoon, the centre’s car park was jam-packed.

One shopper said: “It was astonishing. I have never seen the car park so full. There was not a single space to be had.”