We're choccing all over the world!

Status Quo played a surprise gig for Nestl Rowntree employees at a party thrown by managing director Chris White.

About 2,000 people enjoyed a night of music at York Racecourse on Saturday, as a thank you for all their hard work.

Thousands of Nestl workers raised their glasses to rock and roll legends Status Quo at a special "thank-you" party.

Nestl Rowntree managing director Chris White organised the bash at York Racecourse to thank staff for all their hard work.

About 2,000 guests were treated to an hour's concert by Status Quo, a buffet and drinks, a casino, giant football table and other activities located around four floors.

Mr White said Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt was a close friend and had arranged for the band to waive their appearance fee.

"It's all about the staff getting together, because we're only going to win in this business if we are a team," he said.

"This was the perfect way to say thanks for all the hard work in 2004 and the work to come in 2005.

"It's also to celebrate the continuing success of Kit Kat." At the end of the night, Mr White joined the band on stage with his guitar, while cheering guests crowded on to balconies.

He added: "It was a great night and I'm really happy that everyone enjoyed themselves."

Employee Nick Meese, 38, said he had enjoyed the performance. "I think it was absolutely superb," he said. "People were looking over people and standing on their chairs to see the band. It was euphoric."

His friend Ann-Marie Tetley, 36, said: "There's been fantastic entertainment on all four floors, and there are TV screens dotted around so even if you couldn't manage to see the band, you could still see and hear them on the screens."

Sally Ellam, 36, said she had thoroughly enjoyed the party. "I've had a great night," she said.

"It was really good of Mr White to organise it."

Paul Wherry, 45, said: "We all really enjoyed it. It's been good fun."

Status Quo's manager, Simon Porter, said it had been a pleasure to appear in York, and praised Mr White's performance.

"The band loved performing in York," he said.

"Although I have to say, they will definitely be remaining a five-piece!" Mr White said several Nestl staff sold their tickets for the free bash for more than £100 on the eBay website to Quo fans.

Their appearance was supposed to be a surprise, but workers got wind of the performance after it had been accidentally printed on the tickets.

Updated: 10:22 Monday, January 31, 2005