LSO and Vangelis top classical singles chart

6 August 2012, 16:07 | Updated: 6 August 2012, 16:28

Vangelis' 'Chariots Of Fire' tops the classical singles charts, thanks to a boost from the LSO and Rowan Atkinson at the Olympics opening ceremony

The classical singles chart was topped yesterday by the LSO's recording of Vangelis' 'Chariots Of Fire', displacing Hans Zimmer's 'Rise' from the soundtrack to The Dark Knight Rises.

The LSO recording was boosted to the top of the charts thanks to a rapturously received performance at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games that featured Rowan Atkinson as Mr. Bean playing the synth line.

Other examples of the Olympic effect in the chart include the Four Nations Choir's performance of Jerusalem/Flower Of Scotland/Danny Boy at number two, and the LSO again at number four with their rendition of Elgar's 'Nimrod'.

Hans Zimmer's 'Aurora', which was recorded for charity after the Denver cinema shootings last month, is a new entry at number three.