Saturday shoppers got more than they bargained for when a gold-painted man began firing arrows into the crowd.

Fortunately, although Cupid aimed for the heart, no one was injured.

The classical god of love and desire made a surprise appearance at the Liberty, Romford, on February 9, shooting invisible darts at members of the public – who then received mystery gifts in red envelopes.

More than 100 shoppers were given the Valentine’s goodies, which included beauty gifts, chocolates and cookies courtesy of Thornton’s, Boots, Naturally Unique and Millie’s Cookies.

He even made a dream come true for one lucky couple – Amy Eastwell, 21, and Ryan Jones, 25, won a romantic hot air balloon trip when Cupid set them in his sights.

“We were so excited as we’ve always wanted to go on a hot air balloon ride,” said Amy, of Brentvvood.

Centre manager Jonathan Poole said: “Valentine’s Day is no longer a day just for couples – it’s become an opportunity to show those you care about how much they mean to you.

“At The Liberty we wanted to show our shoppers a little love in a unique and entertaining manner.”

As well as dodging shots from a Latin god, shoppers were serenaded with popular opera tunes by singers Jack Foley and Franz Hepburn.