The Game store in The Exchange Ilford, made sure it had a captive audience with an after-hours “lock-in” last week.

The computer games and consoles retailer rewarded customers at the shopping centre, in High Road, Ilford, with an evening of competitions and prizes for three hours after closing time on Thursday.

Gamers enjoyed a Fifa tournament on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, while reps from software company 2k Games promoted Bioshock Infinite, a top seller according to store manager, Steve Walker.

Visitors, who had been given free invites, also tried out the Forza series of driving games, guiding cars around a version of the test track on TV show Top Gear.

Mr Walker said there was a “good turn-out and a really great atmosphere”.

Another event is being held tonight (Thursday).

For a free invitation, visit the store or tweet @GAMEIlford.