A BLACKBURN schoolgirl is set to become a Christmas star at film festivals around the world.

Eight-year-old Claudia Lewis was delighted when she won the starring role of Amy in the short film The Santa Lie earlier this year.

Now the independent film is set to go global after being officially selected to be screened at the 2013 Adelaide Kids Film Festival later this month.

The makers behind the movie have now been beset with requests for copies of the film starring the Ewood youngster.

Claudia, who attends Redeemer CE PrimarySchool, was chosen to take part in the film from a host of modelling agency hopefuls.

Claudia has modelled for supermarket Morrisons before but this was her debut movie role.

Mum Nicky said she was initially concerned about the film’s title but was reassured after reading the script.

She said: “Claudia is a big fan of Father Christmas and we were a bit worried about the film’s message.

“However, when we read the script we were quite reassured because it has a lovely, Christmassy ending.

“She had a brilliant time taking part in it and it is amazing that it is getting such a good reception now.”

The film tells the story of a little girl who confronts her parents about the truth about Santa early one Christmas morning.

Writer and director Darren Langlands said: “The Adelaide festival received a record number of entries this year so to be selected is a massive achievement. Now we have had requests from all over Europe.

“Claudia is easily one of most professional actors I’ve ever worked with and she’s just terrific in our film.

” Claudia said: “I really liked the story and I had fun playing the part of Amy. My favourite part of the Santa Lie is what happens at the end.”

To find out more about the Santa Lie visit www.altanglefilms.co.uk