Spider-Man swings into town amid violence row

The Spider-Man movie is opening in the UK on the heels of criticism from film regulators that it is possibly the most violent film ever aimed at children.

The British Board Of Film Classification has accused Hollywood of conducting an "aggressive" marketing campaign to encourage young fans when the movie was simply not suitable for them.

It follows the decision by some local authorities to reject the BBFC's 12 classification and allow even younger movie-goers.

Fans of the comic strip hero are unlikely to be put off from going to see the film by the row over censorship.

And Spider-Man mania is only likely to be fuelled by an auction of original copies of comic books belonging to creator Stan Lee in the United States next month.

The comic books, which the legendary writer used for reference, include the first issue of Amazing Spider-Man and the 15th edition of Amazing Fantasy in which 79-year-old Lee first introduced the character.

The memorabilia is expected to fetch thousands at the auction, due to be opened by Lee, in Chicago on July 5.

Lee's personal comic books from the 1960s and some of his original artwork will be among a host of material being sold by Heritage Comics Auctions (HCA) at their July 4-7 Wizard World auction.

Prospective bidders who can't make it to Chicago for the sale can bid by phone, fax or online.