CHRISTMAS ADVERTS are a pivotal part of the festive period, and a young actor from the town stars in one of the most high-profile campaigns.

Max Reynolds, 12, is a member of the Artemis Performing Arts School, based in Ascot. 

The youngster is the new star of the Marks & Spencer Christmas advert, appearing alongside Paddington Bear and Santa Claus. 

Max said: “In July I was invited to audition for an M&S Christmas advert, I went up to London and auditioned, then in the next couple of weeks, I heard that I got the part.

"I was surrounded by movie magic, cameras and lots of technicians. I went on set and the director explained what I had to do.

"He and the rest of the crew were very welcoming.

"While I was at the studio I saw some famous faces. I don’t want to give anything away though. 

"I also saw the green screens, which create a background on the set, they were massive, as big as my house."

Max has also appeared in Bridget Jones' Baby, Downton Abbey, and will feature in Beauty and the Beast at South Hill Park this Christmas.