HOLLYWOOD hopefuls dreaming of a life in the movies are being offered the chance to star in a new film.

Aspiring actors are needed to appear as extras in an all-star film version of the Evelyn Waugh classic Brideshead Revisited, to be set at Castle Howard, in North Yorkshire.

Film crews are heading to the region to shoot the movie, with a cast that includes Emma Thompson.

Ecosse Films, based in London, is searching the region for film extras to appear.

They can be drawn from across the North, and Ecosse Films is holding auditions next week. Those picked will need to be on the set at locations across the region next month.

An Ecosse spokesman said: "It is nice for the people from an area to be able to take part in something which is being filmed on their doorstep.

"We are looking for quite a few people of both sexes to take part. The work is paid and no acting experience is needed.

"Everyone is welcome to come along to have a go. We are looking for a certain 1940s look.

"It does not matter if they work and can only make one day, they can still take part."

Brideshead Revisited was shot as an acclaimed 11-part television series in the Eighties, with a cast list including Jeremy Irons.

The new version was written for the screen by Andrew Davies, who adapted Bleak House for the BBC.

Thompson and Michael Gambon will play Lord and Lady Marchmain.

Ben Whishaw, Charles Ryder and Hayley Atwell are also lined up to appear.

Extras applicants must be at least 17.

Auditions will take place at the Milton Rooms, in the Market Place, Malton, from 2pm to 9pm on Monday, and in the Royal York Hotel, in York, from noon to 7pm on Thursday.

Those auditioning will have to fill in a form, give their size measurements and pose for a photo.