Bond is back - with stubble

Brooding Daniel Craig clutches his pistol in his gloved hand, poised to strike, as fans were today given their first taste of the new James Bond film.

Producers released this still of 007 lurking in the shadows in a scene set in Shanghai from the 23rd Bond movie Skyfall.

With his intense, piercing glare, the agent appears to be in pursuit of a target as he is picked out from the darkness by the glow of a neon sign.

And the often impeccably groomed star is seen with a layer of stubble in the film, being directed by Sam Mendes.

Craig is returning for a third time as Bond following the success of Casino Royale and A Quantum Of Solace.

The film also sees Dame Judi Dench return as M, while Javier Bardem is lined up to play the villain. Also in the cast are Naomie Harris, Albert Finney and Ralph Fiennes.

The production crew has been spotted at various locations around London since filming began. Skyfall is due to open in the UK on October 26.