James Franco 'mobbed at university'

Pineapple Express and Spider-Man star James Franco has been mobbed by university students in a New York City cafe.

The 30-year-old, who is undertaking an MA in writing at Ivy League school Columbia University, was approached by "squealing" freshman girls.

College newspaper The Columbia Spectator subsequently issued a statement in a bid to keep teenage students under control in the actor's presence.

"Do a bit of subtle ogling, but don't stand around the entrance like a pack of starving vultures," it read.

Pineapple Express opens in UK cinemas on Friday.