EXHIBITION: Bond, James Bond

I first got to know 007 during eight-hour trips to the cinema watching the movies back to back.

The Picture House was the Esaldo and the Classic in those days, and Sean Connery hadn't yet handed back his Walther PPK.

I darted home through the streets, doorway to doorway, shadow to shadow, believing I actually was Mr Bond.

Like me there have probably been millions of would-be James and Jemima Bonds over the years, and like me most of them grew up.

For those who didn't - and the rest of us who wish we didn't have to - there's a terrific new exhibition in Bradford.

"Bond, James Bond" gives closet spies the chance to play their hero for a couple hours at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television.

They don't get to fire the Walther, kiss the girls, play with the famous gadgets or press that gear lever and send Oddjob's pal through the car roof.

But there is the chance to get a briefing in M's office, hang from the Golden Gate Bridge, and take part in one of those nail-biting climaxes.

The interactive elements - accessed through your very own Secret Service ID card - are the icing on the cake of an exhibition sure to delight any Bond fan.

The cake itself is made up of dozens of gadgets, photos, costumes, posters, and storyboards from all the films from Dr No to The World is Not Enough.

There's a real Aston Martin DB5, a crocodile submarine, Oddjob's bowler hat, Rosa Klebb's stiletto shoes, the golden gun, James' watch collection and much more.

And since there isn't enough room in the museum gallery for 007's entire arsenal, there are several computer databases giving extra information.

The exhibition is about more than the fictional superspy. It's equally about the film makers who create his world.

As a result there's a lot to interest general film buffs - though it's the Bond fans who get the biggest licence to thrill.

Bond, James Bond runs until September 1, admission £6, concession £4.50. Phone 01274 202030

DAVID KNIGHTS