Matthew visits his old stamping ground to perform the honours
Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis cast a spell over his young fans when he returned to his home town of Horsforth.
Matthew, known to millions as Harry’s bumbling pal Neville Longbottom, was guest of honour at the opening of the revamped Town Library.
And the 16 year old was only too happy to be invited because he fondly remembers visits to the library as a younger child.
As a nine year old he used to loan books on his mum’s card. His favourites were the Warpath books set in the Second World War.
He said: “I used to love coming to the library and browsing through all the books.
“It’s really amazing to be asked back.”
Matthew is now studying for his A levels at St Mary’s School in Menston but next month begins filming the fifth feature film version of JK Rowling’s best selling books.
And his high profile role has made him a recognisable face not just in Leeds and Yorkshire but around the world.
Recognised
Matthew said: “I do get recognised but people always say really nice things. It’s great that people appreciate what you do.”
After he’s finished school – and the Potter film series – he’s hoping for a full-time acting career.
And Christopher Ecclestone had better watch out – Matthew has his eye on his role.
He said: “I’d love to play someone really different. A really gritty character who’s not just bad but truly twisted.
“It would be great to get my teeth into something like that. Christopher Ecclestone has had some excellent roles and it would be cool to follow him.”
Matthew is also inspired by Hollywood actor Al Pacino and his favourite films are Scarface and The Godfather Part II.
To his legion of young fans, though, Matthew will always be Neville Longbottom. And at Friday’s reopening they got to meet their hero in person.
As well as signing autographs, Matthew read some of his favourite Harry Potter extracts, and answered questions about his role.