US copper swept up in commods rally in early trade

NEW YORK, May 16 (Reuters) - U.S. copper futures rose to an eight day high in early trade on Friday, following gains across the metals complex.

NOTE: For detailed report, click on [MET/L].

* July copper delivery HGN8 up 9.30 cents at $3.8315 a lb on the COMEX. Range $3.7395 to $3.8420, highest since May 8.

* 9 a.m. EST volume estimated at 6,501 lots.

* Copper buoyed by gains in aluminum and zinc, and across commodities complex. Gold and oil surges watched.

* No extra buying on back of surprise 8.2 percent gain in April U.S. housing starts - floor broker.

* Traders cite tightness based on LME cash-three month backwardation widening out after midweek narrowing.

* Chinese demand seen slack. Chinese dealers have built up stocks and could wait for lower prices.

* Shanghai inventories rose 1 percent to 51,507 tonnes.