Nesbitt going "dwarf training" for 'Hobbit'

James Nesbitt has revealed that he is to embark on a month of "dwarf training" for his upcoming role in The Hobbit.

The actor was cast as Bofur in Peter Jackson's two-part J.R.R. Tolkien adaptation last month, and begins filming on the movies in the New Year.

Nesbitt admitted that his preparation for the picture would entail learning how to ride a horse and fight with a sword while wearing his cumbersome dwarf costume.

According to The Sun, he said: "We're going for dwarf training for a month! It's an adventure and I can't wait for it. I've never done a massive film like it. It's a once in a lifetime thing - not just for me but for the family."

The Hobbit also stars Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage and Cate Blanchett, and is scheduled to hit theatres in December 2012.