Bath gala screening for new Bond film

James Bond stars Daniel Craig, Dame Judi Dench and Gemma Arterton have been invited to a red carpet screening of the super spy's latest outing in Bath tonight.

Quantum of Solace receives its first showing in the South West following the film's world premier in London last night.

The film, which follows Craig's debut as 007 in Casino Royale, will be shown at a regional charity gala performance at Bath's Odeon cinema on James Street West.

The show is a sell-out, with more than 240 tickets sold for £30 each in aid of a multi-million pound neonatal intensive care unit through the Forever Friends Appeal.

Security for tonight's Bath Quantum of Solace screening will be tight: organisers have drafted in four security guards from Surrey firm Pavilion Branded Concept Security (BCS) at the request of distributors Sony.

The guards will monitor the audience at the screening with night vision goggles to prevent illegal recording during the screening.

A Pavilion BCS spokesman said the firm provided security for last night's London screening of Quantum of Solace and would be working with preview screenings across the country tonight.

Bath Odeon manager Simon Morse said: "This is a great event for the Odeon in Bath and great that we can get involved and raise money for the charity.

"It is the first time the film will be shown in Bath."

Businesses in Bath have also got on board to offer prizes including MP3 players, which will be up for grabs in a golden envelope prize draw.

Organiser Steve Miklos confirmed that Quantum of Solace stars have been invited, and held a phone conference with Dame Judi Dench and her publicist.

Glastonbury Festival boss Michael Eavis was also invited to the black tie event, but declined because of a prior engagement.

Local celebrities Bill Bailey and Noel Edmonds were also invited but declined to attend.

Mr Miklos said: "Judi Dench loves Bath and is often seen around town.

"It was the world premier in London last night and it depends on how many for sore heads there are in London."

Tonight's screening of Quantum of Solace will begin with a champagne reception at 7pm before the film starts at 8pm.