Connor aims for stardom after Billy Elliot success

Teenager Connor Doyle has stars in his eyes and the world at his feet.

The 13-year-old from the Black Country is midway through his second run as a leading cast member in the hit West End production of Billy Elliot - The Musical.

And with an impressive showbusiness CV that reveals 10 years of experience that takes in early roles in popular TV adverts, to more recent positions that have seen him rubbing shoulders with legends like Elton John, he said he has high hopes of making it big in the industry.

Connor first rose to fame as the Comet boy, following his part in a commercial that saw him utter the catchphrases 'Can we go now?' and 'Dad, I need a wee' as he is dragged around the electrical store.

But while his family live in Great Barr, he is currently based in a house in London along with fellow young cast members from the Billy Elliot show.

Connor plays Billy's best friend Michael Caffrey, one of three youngsters playing the role, with another four budding thespians taking turns to fill the part of Billy himself.

During the 10-week run, all seven of the boys stay at a special house in London, where they receive special tuition in between rehearsals and performances.

But while King Edward VI Aston school pupil Connor says he is keen to have something to fall back on, it is clear that he has his heart set on the world of showbusiness.

And his time on the West End has done nothing to dissuade him.

"It's an amazing role," he said. "You're always switching you emotions. One minute you're doing all the happy stuff and getting the laughs, but there are also the more serious moments.

"It's very challenging, but I like getting my teeth into things. But after doing lots of shows in a row, you do get quite tired."

And he said he was pleasantly surprised when he crossed paths with Elton John.

"It was quite funny really," he said. "He just came for the show's fifth anniversary celebrations and we all got to meet him.

"He's a really nice guy and we had a little chat.

"You look at superstars like Elton John and maybe worry they could be real divas, but he was really down to earth."