SHOPPERS were given the chance to pay their respects to Michael Jackson and share their memories at a busy Sunday market in North Yorkshire.

Fans young and old went to a shrine set up in memory of the King of Pop and wrote messages and memories in a book of condolence, at Catterick Market.

A large picture of Jackson was set up on a podium surrounded by candles and a message that said ‘Thank you for Thrilling us’.

Organisers of the market, held every Sunday at Catterick Racecourse, said hundreds of people had left messages and spent a quiet moment at the shrine, although they admitted some visitors had refused to take part.

Most of the visitors signing the book were younger fans and many families also paid their respects at the shrine.

Messages left in the book included, ‘I love you Michael, from Callum. PS I always will’ and ‘Michael Jackson- a legend. A massive loss and waste of life, we will listen to your music forever.’ The book of condolence will be sent to Jackson’s family in America once it is full.

The star’s biggest hits were the only music played all day over the public address system at the market, which attracts up to 15,000 visitors each week, with many singing along and attempting the Moonwalk in tribute.

The shrine was the idea of market proprietor, Greville Worthington, who has been a fan of Jackson all his life.

"I decided to do something the moment I heard of his death - it was like a Princess Diana moment, something that everyone will always remember," he said.

"We had to do it very quickly but I think we managed to come up with something that was fitting.

"We wanted to share the memories and the music and this was the best way, with all of the people that come here able to take part."

Visitors to the shrine also contributed to a collection for the Butterwick Children’s Hospice, which will be donated in the singer’s memory.