Chris Martin played an impromptu gig at a homeless shelter in New York City

James Macklin, the mission's director of outreach, said Chris' appearance, which included performances of songs such as The Beatles' 'Yesterday' and hymn 'Amazing Grace', had helped to lift the spirits of the homeless men and women at the shelter.

He explained: "Chris Martin proved once again the power of one person to make a difference through The Bowery Mission.

"As the temperatures drop and we serve thousands of lonely people during the holidays, Chris has lifted our spirits today."

Chris played solo for part of the show, but was later joined by two singers, both of whom had previously turned to the mission as they sought to fight their way out of homelessness.

Meanwhile, it was recently reported that Chris and his ex-wife Gwyneth Paltrow are planning to move back to London.

The couple split over two years ago, but have made a mutual decision to return to the UK in 2017 for the sake of their kids Apple, 12, and Moses, 10.

A source previously said: "They're horrified by Donald Trump's election and feel it's a damning indictment of the current state of America.

"Their children's education is extremely important to them and they're in agreement that the English school system is better."

The duo are also said to miss their friends and family back home.

The insider explained: "On top of that, Gwyneth misses her friends in London and Chris is keen for the kids to be closer to his parents in Devon."