BARBIEMANIA erupted as hundreds of her fans packed into Woolworths to see the real life version of the world-famous doll.

Dressed from head-to-toe in pink, Barbie made a flying visit to the Bolton store as girls -- and boys -- packed the toy aisles in a desperate bid to meet her.

Long queues meant the inevitable tears as youngsters were overcome by excitment.

But there were squeals of delight as her fans, dressed in Barbie gear from silver and pink shoes to denim jackets and glitzy hairbands, crammed into the store for ballons, badges and postcards.

Her visit coincided with the half-term holidays and is part of a national tour.

Barbie rushed to Bolton from Warrington and will travel to Hull and Harrogate today.

Grandparents, mums and dads were dragged down to the store by their eager children -- mostly under five's.

Marilu Wallis, aged five, from St Andrews Primary, was close to tears at meeting her idol.

Marilu, who had written a poem which Barbie later signed, said: "She looks like a real princess. I liked her crown best."

And little Lucy Duckworth, aged four, rushed away from her meeting with the superstar -- to put on her dress, which is just like Barbie's!

Barbie said: "Bolton has been the busiest store yet. I have never seen so many children who want to meet me.

"It's lovely to see them all and everyone has been so friendly."