A SEA of ecstatic pop fans, armed with glow sticks, flashing devil horns and bunny ears, enjoyed some the best acts around as the Smash Hits Poll Winners Tour hit Manchester.

So Solid Crew's Romeo got the party off to a flying start with a superb live performance, setting the tone for what was to be an evening of pure pop pleasure.

Band-mate Harvey was next up, before London boys Blazin Squad took to the stage. The deafening screams that greeted the ten 17-year-olds' performance of number one single Crossroads could explain a lot of sore throats today.

The energetic pace was maintained throughout the first half by chart-topping Belgian dance acts Milk Inc, Ian Van Dahl and Lasgo.

New American boy band Natural played a couple of radio-friendly tracks. The five-piece, one of whom is rumoured to have dated US queen of pop Britney Spears, are definitely faces to watch out for in the future.

Despite the second half containing most of the headline acts, there was still room for newcomers Busted, Irish Popstars winners Six and Irish boy band D-Side.

Darius reminded us why we loved him in Popstars and Pop Idol when he dedicated his performance of number one hit Colour Blind to a competition winner, before treating fans to a preview of new single Rushes, which is destined to be another huge hit.

The slick moves of H and Claire never faltered as they danced their way, in true Steps style, through DJ, before singing an impressive live rendition of Disney's Beauty and the Beast title track.

Aussie babe Dannii Minogue shone throughout her energetic set, while current sensation Samantha Mumba looked striking in a short, low-cut little black dress.

Headliners Sugababes proved they were deserving of the Q Award for best single when the trio gave it their all with the infectious Round Round and the famous microphone stand dance, bringing the night to a triumphant close.