HOLLYWOOD stars will be in Winchester this week for the shooting of scenes for Les Misérables.

A production crew from Working Title Films will transform the Cathedral Close-Kingsgate area into 19th century Paris for the musical drama, on April 18-20.

The film stars Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Eddie Redmayne, Amanda Seyfried and Aaron Tveit. It was unclear which actors will be in Winchester for the filming of the adaptation of the hit stage musical.

Affected streets include College Walk, College Street, St Swithun Street and Symonds Street.

Some street furniture is having to be temporarily removed.

Winchester has hosted several high-profile film crews in recent years with the cathedral being used for The Da Vinci Code and Elizabeth.

A city council spokesman said: “Winchester has played host to a variety of movie and TV productions, and we are delighted that the company behind Les Misérables are coming to Winchester to turn some of our streets into 19th century Paris.

“Filming always provides a boost for the city, with fans of the film often coming to see the locations and residents and local people getting excited about having some of Hollywood’s finest in town.”

One local church which will financially benefit is St Swithun-Upon-Kingsgate which will provide shelter for 25 extras between shoots. The tiny church will be closed to the public on April 19 from early afternoon until about 11pm. A contribution will be made by the film company towards parish funds.

But one local resident, who asked not to be named, was underwhelmed by the news. She said: “Winchester can sell itself without having to be dressed up as Paris.”

The film company will be using the St Catherines park and ride at Bar End as a base.

Les Misérables is being directed by Tom Hooper who made The King's Speech.