It’s a long time since Kimberley Walsh has shopped at Morrisons’ superstore in Idle... and this time it was her that was flying off the shelves, not the two-for-one offers.

Kimberley, 31, originally of Sandy Lane in Bradford, visited the store a day ahead of the official publication of her autobiography, a Whole Lot of History, to give her loyal Bradfordian fans a sneak preview.

They came from far and wide to queue around the store waiting for Kimberley to make an appearance just after noon, all armed with freshly-bought copies of her book for her to sign.

Before she appeared on the shop-floor to cheers and chants of “Kimba, Kimba,” she had a private chat with the winner of our recent competition to meet the Girls Aloud star, Stephanie Fewer, 18, of Bingley, and her pal Rachel Convery.

Both girls attended Beckfoot school, like their idol, and danced at the DM Academy, where Kimberley also attended.

Stephanie said: “I’ve always been a fan. In fact I voted 200 times for her to win Pop Idol [the TV talent show that shot Girls Aloud to fame].”

Kimberley told the T&A she has never forgotten her Bradford roots and said: “People in Bradford have always supported me, through Girls Aloud, Strictly Come Dancing, climbing Kilimanjaro for Comic Relief, they’ve always been brilliant.”

She added: “This used to be my local Morrisons when I went to dance school and my sister used to live near here for a while. It’s a bit strange to be back, but it’s so nice as well.”

Kimberley signed books for fans and posed for pictures.

Jessica Russell had set off from Cambridge at midnight, arriving in Bradford at 4.30am and waiting for Kimberley to arrive. She said: “It’s the 21st time I’ve met her. I’ve been a fan of Girls Aloud since day one.”

Amy Gough, of Idle, had queued with mum Mandy Nolson since 8.30am. She said: “I’m a massive fan. I can’t wait to read the book!”