Arnie battles rain at première

Schwarzenegger is cloned in The 6th Day

Hundreds of fans braved a downpour to see Arnold Schwarzenegger arrive for the UK première of his new film, The 6th Day, in London on Thursday night.

The 53-year-old former bodybuilder spent 10 minutes outside the Odeon cinema in Kensington High Street meeting fans and signing autographs.

He said: "It was 34 years ago I came to London the first time and I was placed second in the Mr Universe competition.

The actor signed autographs for fans in the rain

"Of course, since then I've come back many more times for my films and to promote books and I always love to come back here."

In his latest film Schwarzenegger plays Adam Gibson, whose life is turned upside down when he discovers a clone of himself has been created by a malevolent corporation.

Director Roger Spottiswoode said: "Arnie was great playing against himself. He's great, so long as he knows you're going to have to do it 100 times he's happy - and I do things 120 times."

The film has taken more than $80m (£55m) since it opened in the States.

Rock star Jon Bon Jovi and his band were at the premiere, just two hours after landing in the UK to promote a new single.

Bon Jovi said: "Arnie and I are dear old friends - we always try to get along to see his films."

Also at the screening were chart stars Honeyz and film director and former Monty Python member Terry Gilliam.