Britain, the force is with us!

With just over eighteen months until its expected release, Star Wars: Episode VII is set to begin filming next Spring with the UK being used as a major filming location.

However there is additional good news for us Brits after it was revealed earlier today that open auditions will be held around the country for two lead roles in the hugely-anticipated sci-fi blockbuster.

The Twitter account @UKopencall made the announcement this morning that casting calls will take place in Bristol, Manchester, London, Dublin and many other places. Castings are already taking place in the US.

The filmmakers are looking to fill the two roles, one being a “street smart and strong” orphaned girl in her late teens and the other being a “smart capable” man in his late teens or early 20s.

It is hoped that the bold move will bring similiar success to the potential newcomers as it did for original actors Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) when Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) first went into production.

Director JJ Abrams, who is also co-scripting the movie, will not be attending the open auditions which begin in Bristol on 9th November. Those attending the auditions must be over the ages of 16 (female) and 18 (male) respectively.

Star Wars: Episode VII is scheduled to begin filming at Pinewood Studios in spring 2014 and is expected to be released in summer 2015.