YOUNG film fans in Preston could be able to see the latest Hollywood blockbuster Spiderman -- despite the fact it has been given a 12 certificate.

A little known power means that Preston City Council could have the certificate changed to a PG/12 if they receive requests from parents to do so.

Four councils in England have already challenged the British Board of Film Classification's (BBFC) decision to give the movie a 12 certificate.

Councils are not legally required to follow the BBFC guidelines, and can change the certificate or ban any film they choose. Several councils, including Norwich City Council, have now classified the blockbuster as a PG/12 certificate, so if parents feel their children are old enough to see the film, they can.

A spokesman for Norwich City Council said: "In view of recent public interest and other local council decisions, we felt it was appropriate to arrange for the council to view the film. As a result Spiderman has been reclassified to a PG/12 in Norwich, which allows children under 12 to go as long as they're accompanied by a responsible adult."

The move has paved the way for Preston parents to apply to the council if they would like their youngsters to see the film.

If parents contact the council with a request, the Environmental Protection and Licensing Committee can hold a private viewing and decide whether the original classification is valid. In the past the committee has viewed controversial road-movie Natural Born Killers, and banned Monty Python comedy The Life of Brian.

Mike Thorpe, head of licensing at Preston City Council, said it's a little-known power which is seldom applied. "The council, through its environmental protection and licensing committee, could consider if requested to do so, to change the certificate of films.

"If we had a request the council would have to consider it. They would have to watch the film."

The next meeting of the committee takes place on July 4, when any requests made will be considered.