STAR Wars mania came to Bolton as more than 300 fans made sure they would be the first to watch the new film -- at one minute past midnight.

The UGC cinema, at the Valley Centretainment, decided to open its doors in the early hours to allow Jedi worshippers to see the Attack of the Clones at the earliest opportunity.

Despite the time, many loyal fans turned up for the special viewing, guaranteeing they were among the first people to see what is bound to be one of the box office hits of the year.

James Booth, from the UGC cinema, said: "We were not sure at first whether we were going to have a special screening, but after the success of the last Star Wars film, The Phantom Menace, we thought we should to keep the fans happy."

And sure enough they came in their droves, putting that early night firmly on the back burner.

The cinema was packed to the rafters with Star Wars fanatics -- gripping popcorn and soft drinks -- visibly excited to see the film after waiting three years since the first part of the trilogy.

I was glad I was there to enjoy the experience with the die-hard fans -- and I thought the film itself was fantastic.

The visual effects were quite simply breathtaking, and now that the plots of all five films seem to be making one big story, I can't wait for the next part in 2005.

The fans who turned up for the preview were equally impressed with what they say.

Craig Morrison, an A-level student, aged 18, from Eccles, said: "It was absolutely mind blowing, out of this world. I think the best bit was the fight scene near the end.

"There were no bad parts in it at all and I can't wait for the next film. I know they take a while but they are worth the wait. I'd love to be an extra in the next film."

Michael Bithell, a 16-year-old student from Westhoughton, said: "I'm a really big fan anyway, but I thought the film was great. Visually it was stunning -- absolutely amazing. I think it was better than the last one too."

His dad, Joseph Bithell, a supermarket sales assistant, aged 50, agreed but added: "I think the loves scenes got in the way a little. One minute you were up in the air with all the tension, and the next your back down again."

Matthew Foster, a cashier inquiry officer with Bolton Housing, aged 34, from Beaumont, said: "I really enjoyed it -- it was worth stopping up for, especially the action in the last hour. I thought it was really clever how they are bringing all the plots together now. The special effects were fantastic."

Robin Lindsay, a student, aged 20, from Bradshaw, said: "It was absolutely brilliant. I love the films and there is definitely something for everyone with this one -- children, adults and teenagers.

"I thought the effects were good. They played on them a bit too much during the last film, but this time they seemed to get it right. I'm really looking forward to the next one now."

Shahid Hassan, the cinema manager at UGC, said: "Even though I work at the cinema, I haven't seen all the Star Wars films, but I thought this one was a really good one for the family. Everyone who was watching the film looked like they were having fun."