An Oxford schoolgirl is to star in Hollywood's first Harry Potter film.

Emma Watson, ten, a pupil at The Dragon School in Bardwell Road, has landed the role of Hermione, one of Harry's best friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The film, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is the first in Warner's deal with author JK Rowling to make four films of the orphan's adventures.

Up until now, Emma has only appeared in school plays. She was the lead in a production of Oscar Wilde's The Happy Prince at her school. Harry Potter will be played by Daniel Radcliffe, 11, who made his acting debut in the BBC's David Copperfield.

Robin Frith, deputy head of the The Dragon School said: "Everyone is very pleased for her. She may have to take time off school but it won't be the first time that has happened over the years. There have been pupils here who have appeared in operas and things." Actress Dame Maggie Smith, who lived in Cowley, and started her acting career when she she joined the Oxford Playhouse School of Theatre in 1951, will play the role of Prof Minerva McGonagall, second in command of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.