Fans in the know were able to catch a glimpse and then pose for pictures with rocker Rod Stewart as he made a surprise appearance in Croydon today.

The legend of pop stepped out of a car at Fairfield Halls and posed briefly for photos with fans at about 1.10pm before entering the theatre through the stage door.

The singer, who has sold more than 100 million records, was filming an interview with a Dutch television station.

The 70-year-old is in the UK ahead of a world tour that will reach the UK next June.