Schoolgirl stars with Keira

10:16am Friday 8th February 2008

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A nine-year-old Wimbledon girl is to grace the silver screen when she stars in a film alongside Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes.

Poppy Wigglesworth has just finished filming The Duchess, which chronicles the life of 18th century aristocrat Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, an ancestor of Princess Diana who was both celebrated and reviled for her extravagant lifestyle.

"She’s just one of those children who’s got it."

Glenda Davies

The Dundonald Primary pupil played the role of Charlotte, the daughter of the Fiennes' character.

Poppy said: "I've had the most amazing time. It's been so much fun. I've really enjoyed meeting Keira and Ralph. They looked after me well and I hope we'll stay friends."

Poppy's mum Glenda Davies, 39, described the Atonement star as "gorgeous and lovely."

"On Poppy's birthday, Keira decorated her winnebago and left a lovely necklace and bracelet for her," Miss Davies added.

The movie is the latest step in Poppy's colourful acting career.

She has appeared in a number of commercials, including adverts for Toyota, Maltesers and Tesco.

Miss Davies added: "She's just one of those children who's got it. She's very natural. All four of my children are signed up to agencies but Poppy is on a roll."

Poppy is now back at school but is about to embark on a whirlwind of promotional interviews to support the film, which is due out later this year.

Dundonald Primary headteacher Fiona Duffy added: "We're absolutely delighted. She's a very talented actress."