Potter's wheel of film fortune spins for Tom

Fifteen-year-old Tom, from Southwick, met Hollywood superstars Ewan McGregor and Rene Zellweger on the set of Miss Potter.

The film tells the story of author Beatrix Potter, played by Zellweger, and her struggle for happiness and success.

Tom said: "I met them briefly. They were really nice. They came over and said 'hello'."

Although Tom's scenes were filmed last March, the film was released only last month. He appears on screen for around 10 seconds, as an extra in scenes filmed at the Bluebell Railway.

Despite not being on screen for long, Tom said the experience of being on a film set had been eye-opening.

"When you are there, you see what actually happens," he said. "When they say 'action', everyone moves at the same time."

Appearing in Miss Potter wasn't Tom's first brush with the cameras, as he explained: "I have been in an advert for Oidz '“ they are toy magnets. That was a couple of years ago."

Tom has just secured a part in locally based Wings Productions' version of the musical Bugsy, and will take to the stage in September.

He told the Herald: "I will be playing Dandy Dan. He is the main character. I am really pleased."