'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,' the fourth movie depicting the adventures of JK Rowling's boy wizard and his friends has been given a 12A rating by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). The three previous films have all been rated PG (Parental Guidance, suitable for eight-year-olds and over) but the new rating means that under-twelve's will only be able to take the latest trip to Hogwarts if accompanied by a parent, guardian or other adult.

Announcing the decision, the BBFC said 'The latest Harry Potter film is much darker and scarier than the previous three.younger or more sensitive viewers could be frightened by some of the more intense scenes. There were no arguments over the classification of this film, as the issues of violence, threat and horror were quite clear for all the Examiners who watched it, as well as the Director.'

The BBFC added that no cuts had been made to the film and that they couldn't explain in detail which scenes provoked the change in rating as that would be revealing too much of the plot. Though, of course, those who have read the book will already know what to expect.

The Consumer Advice for the film is: 'Contains moderate fantasy violence, threat and horror.'

As usual with the Potter films, a host of well-known stars will share the billing with regular leads Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, including veteran comedian Eric Sykes. Joining him are Timothy Spall, Mark Williams and David Tennant, shortly to appear on TV as the new Dr Who.

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