Colchester's Odeon Cinema is finding the force isn't with it as it bids to stay open later to screen the new Star Wars blockbuster.

The police are opposing plans to extend screening hours at the Crouch Street cinema.

The Odeon wants the extra screening hours - from midnight to 2.30am - to cope with the anticipated demand for Episode One: The Phantom Menace which opens on July 15.

It has made an application to Colchester Council but Colchester police are objecting, saying it will mean officers will have to work later.

Acting Insp Paul Fieldsend said the longer hours would have a potential knock-on effect on residents with more noise, traffic late at night and the possibility of public disorder.

He stated: "We believe that allowing persons to attend a cinema showing after the conclusion of licensing hours in the local clubs at 2am will provide those who have been drinking with an additional attraction to remain within the town centre."

The cinema's current licence runs until midnight each day and 2.30am on Saturdays and Sundays.

It says it will have more door staff to cover the extra hours to ease police concerns.

Before amending its application to Colchester Council, the Odeon had wanted to open for 24 hours every weekend.

Colchester Council is due to consider the application on Thursday.

Mark Beales, who flew to the United States to see the film when it opened in May and is organising a Sci-Fi convention in Clacton, said: " It's great to know there will be wall-to-wall Star Wars right on our doorstep.

"It's a brilliant film and I'm sure every showing will be sold out."

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