KIDDERMINSTER now has its very own West End star after a 10-year-old won a part in the world-famous musical Les Miserables.

Jimmy Chamberlain will take centre stage at London's Palace Theatre after beating off dozens of rivals for his spot in the sensational production which has been running for 15 years.

The Comberton Middle School pupil will play the character of Gavroche in the Cameron Mackintosh production which will run from October to February.

Jimmy, who attends the Harlequin Stage School in Worcester, will be the only boy in the play and will have to sing a solo - but he is relishing his big opportunity.

He said: "Gavroche is a little boy who is rather cheeky and like an artful dodger. He is a bit naughty but has a strong and tough character so it will be great fun playing him."

Jimmy is no stranger to the spotlight. Three years ago he took part in a Paris fashion show and last June starred in a production of Oliver alongside Gary Wilmot in Birmingham.

His delighted mother Alison Chamberlain said: "When he came out of the final audition he said to me his dream had come true.

"I was so proud of him because in the past year and a half at the Harlequin Stage School he has worked tremendously hard and those that work with him there are superb."

Next month he will spend three weeks rehearsing before his big moment arrives when family, friends and stage school colleagues see him make his West End debut.

It has been quite a year for Jimmy who gained honours in all his dance grades, won a host of cups at festivals and a place at the Royal Ballet School in Birmingham.