HUNDREDS of screaming JLS fans packed Lakeside to the rafters for the band’s book signing on Tuesday.

The central atrium was lined with teenage girls doing their make-up and singing their songs while some waited seven hours to see the band.

First in the 400-strong queue was Emily Walby, 14, and brother Daniel, 15, from Laindon, pictured right. They arrived at the shopping centre at 10am and waited all day.

Emily said: “We missed school to be here today. I am such a huge fan. I was so happy when we were first, I have been shaking just thinking about it.”

JLS were at the centre to sign copies of new book JLS: just between us: our private diary.

WH Smith hosted the event and was flooded with hundreds of phone calls from people trying to get wristbands after the first 400 sold out in less than 12 hours.

As the band approached the stage, deafening screams filled the centre with many girls jumping and crying with excitement.

Best friends Natalie Hopwood and Mikar Irshad, both 14, came from Westcliff to see their favourite band.

Natalie said: “I really want to hug them, it seems like years we have been waiting here, but it’s great.

“We have been singing in the crowd and did lots of singing in the car.”

JLS shot to fame in 2008 after narrowly missing out on winning the X Factor to Alexandra Burke. They have since had three number one singles and a number one album.

Lakeside general manager Paul Lancaster said: “Aston told me the band was really happy to be here again and they love the amazing reception they get here.”