'Superb' was how one woman described 12-year-old Harry Melling's performance as Dudley Dursley in the new Harry Potter film.

And, being Potter creator and millionaire author JK Rowling herself, she should know. Ms Rowling's congratulations, at the lavish after-show party following the film's star-studded West End premiere on Sunday, proved the icing on the cake for the young actor. And he even signed a few autographs.

"I met JK Rowling at the premier and she said I was 'superb' coming from her that was amazing," said Harry, from Mill Hill. The youngster, who attended the premiere with parents Joanna and Brian and brother Jack, 15, has already seen the movie twice.

He is also planning to see it again with friends when it is released later this month.

"It really is a fantastic film. It's got something for everyone comedy, darkness, mystery and adventure," he said. "I was really nervous about going to the premiere but then the traffic was bad and I was more nervous about being late."

Harry, who goes to Hendon School in Golders Rise, Hendon, won the part of the perfectly horrid Dudley after his mother sent his details to a casting agent.

The movie, in which Harry stars alongside the likes of Robbie Coltrane and John Cleese, was his first big break.

He has already been signed up for the sequel, with filming due to begin later this month.

Harry's views are echoed by his mother. "It's a fantastic film and I thought Harry was brilliant, we're really proud of him," added Mrs Melling.

"The premiere really was an experience. There was no fidgeting, everyone was on the edge of their seats."

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone opens at cinemas in the borough on November 16.

November 6, 2001 14:03

MATTHEW NIXSON