Pupils at a Stevenage school all think they’re famous after one of their own starred in the John Lewis Christmas TV advert.

Rhys Edwards plays the lead role in the department store’s festive film alongside Monty the penguin, and since its release the eight-year-old and his fellow Round Diamond Primary School pupils have been making the most of the limelight.

Assistant headteacher Helen Jewitt said a celebratory assembly was held at the school in Whitehorse Lane so everyone could come together to watch the advert – which has since attracted more than 15 million views on YouTube.

“It’s been lovely for the children and it came as a surprise for many of them,” she said.

“We had TV crews here and the children were absolutely amazed by that – they all think they’re famous.”