HMV to open at midnight for U2 singles

HMV on Dublin's Grafton Street is to open its doors at midnight on Thursday for the release of the highly anticipated U2 singles album.

Loyal and anxious fans can be first to get their hand on U218 Singles, the first single disc collection to span their career from 1980 to 2004.

Featuring more than 40 hits from four decades, it includes the tracks Boy and How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb.

The first 10 females and the first 10 males in the queue will receive exclusive U2 hoodies that cannot be bought anywhere in the world.

Store manager Shaun Pritchard said more give-aways can also be expected on the night.

"U2 are one of the greatest bands of all time with an enormous fan base," said Shaun.

"By opening at midnight we are giving fans an opportunity to be the first to get their hands on this album and the opportunity to get their hands on some exclusive merchandise.

"This album is set to be a must for all enthusiasts' music collections."

Fans visiting the store from 10.30am on Friday will also be able to meet, and have their photograph taken, with the infamous U2 heads.