HUNDREDS of people are in Southampton today for the beginning of the city's 47th annual boat show.

The marquee event attracts the great and good of the sailing community with thousands expected to visit Southampton Marina over the next week.

And to kick things off, Britain's Got Talent 2014 winners Collabro performed at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Sunseeker stand.

With the sun shining and a strong breeze, they were joined by Formula One presenter Suzi Perry on the stand as they cut the tape to the applause of the scores of people watching.

Collabro delighted the crowds with three hit covers - Circle of Life from The Lion King, I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables, and the song that won them Britain's Got Talent, Stars, also from Les Mis.

After their performance Collabro rushed off for a quick change of clothes before heading off to their next gig.

But the Daily Echo managed to catch a few words from the boys as they headed off.

Jamie Lambert said: "We are really pleased to be at the Southampton Boat Show. The sun came out when we started to sing so that was nice."

Michael Auger, who is from Petersfield, added: "Unfortunately we are off to our next gig otherwise we would have loved to have stayed for the whole day.

"Hopefully one day we will be able to afford one of these boats."

This year’s show is attracting more than 100 boat debuts and a host of family attractions like On The Water’s Try-a-Boat and the Honda Boat Show Eye. 

There will also be a chance for people to see what life is like below the sea with a show aquarium which has been developed with the University of Southampton. 

The aquarium will have tanks and rock pools filled with creatures from Southampton waters and a darkroom showcasing the world of corals and anemones. 

Bosses are hoping this year’s show will be the most ‘on-the-water’ event yet by offering youngsters the chance to get out on the water with the group Get Afloat! targeted at 8-16 year olds.

There will also be a touch of luxury as show partners Sunseeker Charters offer a VIP experience which will include a one-hour ride onboard a Sunseeker Predator 56.