Former Coronation Street star Richard Fleeshman wowed hundreds of screaming fans as he visited a Shropshire shopping centre.

The actor and singer spent two hours at Telford Shopping Centre yesterday talking to visitors and signing autographs as he promoted his new album and forthcoming tour with Elton John.

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Some supporters waited over an hour to catch a glimpse of the 18-year-old and have their picture taken with him.

The small screen favourite, who played Craig in the popular ITV soap, said he always enjoyed meeting fans, as he arrived at the centre yesterday lunchtime.

“As long as everyone is nice what’s not to like about it,” he added, pointing out that the visit to Telford was a one-off after bosses asked him if he would like to come.

“It’s something different which is good for the centre and it does give me a chance to promote the work I am doing at the moment, including the tour with Elton John.

“When I got the phonecall asking if I would be available I jumped at the chance. It is such an amazing opportunity to be able to do the kind of venues that Elton John plays. So many people in this industry will never get the chance to play a stadium and I am going to do it at 18 years old.”

And with a win on Soapstar Superstar under his belt he is also going to give some advice to future stars. After his visit to Telford, the pin-up was heading to the first live semi-final of Britain’s Got talent.

“I haven’t had a chance to see the programme yet, but I am looking forward to it,” he added.

Asked what he thought of Shropshire he mused that he had only been in the county for four minutes and the Bank Holiday weather wasn’t great.

“Then again I’m from Manchester so actually it’s lovely here today,” he joked.

Friends Marija Tomovic, from Trench, Hannah Paton, from Ketley, Gemma Frankland, from Priorslee and Georgia Holmes, from Ketley Bank, queued for over an hour to meet the star. And all four, aged 15, said it was worth the wait.

“He was lovely and so much better looking to meet in person,” said Hannah.

Charlie Skinner stood in line for 45 minutes with her mother Maria, both from Telford. “I am such a big fan and came here especially to meet Richard,” said Charlie.

By Tracey O’Sullivan