edp24 #4

If Norfolk teenager Chris Rankin had any lingering doubts that he was now a celebrity, they were certainly dispelled this weekend.

Since landing a role in the blockbuster movie Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, the 18-year-old student has been catapulted into the limelight.

And yesterday he was given the VIP treatment in front of thousands of people � when he pressed the switch to bring a festive magical glow to the Market Place in his home town of Dereham.

And after turning on the lights, Chris revealed that he is already working on the film's sequel, to be called Chamber of Secrets.

He said he is fitting in filming schedules with his A-level studies at Dereham Sixth Form College. Filming is to finish next summer and the film is due for release towards the end of next year.

It was only a few weeks ago that Chris, who plays Percy Weasley in the hit movie, was mixing with the stars at the glittering premiere and enjoying an after-screening party at the Savoy Hotel.

Yesterday Chris, who hopes to pursue an acting career, was much in demand from autograph hunters.

Chris, who was also playing the euphonium with his school band to entertain the crowds, said: "It was quite an honour for me to switch on the lights in my home town. I have been involved in this event for the past six or seven years either playing the violin, euphonium or singing."

The appearance by the home-grown star was just one of a number of attractions for the crowds that packed the Market Place. There was a colourful assortment of fairground rides, charity stalls and sideshows. A firework display was a new element this year.

Preparations for the switch-on have been in progress for several days by Bryan Chilmaid and his team to ensure a dazzling �5000 lights show covering the Market Place, High Street, Church Street, and Nelson Place.

Cash contributions towards the lighting have come from Dereham Town Council, the town's Chamber of Trade and a number of local retail businesses.

Pupils from Northgate High School sang songs from Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and extracts from the fairytale Little Red Riding Hood were performed by Dereham Operatic Society.

Young girls of the Toftwood-Busybodies Stage School entertained the crowds and pupil Natalie West, of Earlham Road, Norwich, celebrated her eighth birthday by singing solo items.

Northgate School pupils sang carols before Dereham rector, the Rev Richard Ames-Lewis and town mayor Robin Goreham spoke to the crowds.

Mr Goreman thanked everyone who had made the evening possible.

Mr Ames-Lewis told the crowds: "It is a very wet and cold evening and I think it was probably wet and cold in Bethlehem when Jesus was born. But Jesus came as the light of the world and tonight we are putting the lights on in Dereham as we begin our Christmas season."

Article taken from EDP 24.