LONDON, Sept 19, 2007 (AFP) - US pop star Prince caused a sensation at London Fashion Week Wednesday, September 19th by staging a surprise performance on the catwalk.

Two dancers wearing Matthew Williamson's creations during the London Fashion Week - Photo : Leon Neal/AFP

The diminutive singer, currently staging an extended series of concerts at London's 02 arena, took fashionistas by surprise at British designer Matthew Williamson's 2008 Spring-Summer collection show.

The first indication of the unexpected show came when a Prince track struck up as models prepared to head down the runway -- nothing unusual at the fashion festival which ends ThursdaySeptember 20th.

But then suddenly the models began dancing, before the 49-year-old showman himself launched into a song from his latest album, initially staying in his seat before joining his dancers on the catwalk.

His eye-opening effort was greeted by thunderous applause from the chic elite at the show, held in a vast tent on Eaton Square in the city centre.

After the unexpectedly glamorous launch, Williamson -- bringing a show to London for the first time since 2002 -- took to the catwalk himself to present a collection rich in bright colours and silk, satin and cotton.

Prince, known for hits such as "Purple Rain", "1999" and "U Got The Look", began a series of shows at the former Millennium Dome on August 2, winning rave reviews from critics.