'Billy Elliot' star takes Radcliffe stage role

Jamie Bell, the child star of Billy Elliot, is to succeed Daniel Radcliffe in West End play Equus.

The actor, now 21, has had a relatively low-profile since the movie but is due to take over from the Harry Potter star. The adventurous play controversially includes a nude sex scene.

A source commented: "Jamie is really excited about taking over and isn’t at all daunted about stripping off."

The Daily Mail also reports Orlando Bloom turned down the role.