by Lynn Cox

Filming has begun in Medway on a Hollywood musical, featuring superstar Russell Crowe.

Chatham's Historic Dockyard has become a little piece of France while work is carried out on the potential blockbuster, which also stars Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway and Helena Bonham-Carter.

Russell, who is playing police inspector Javert in the film, was spotted in the Ship and Trades pub, Chatham Maritime, on Friday night.

He had been filming during the day and was seen walking around the site in casual clothes before getting into costume and riding a horse.

The production was being set up on Thursday and crews were busy creating the set at the historic site.

A large marquee has also been set up in the car park of the site and is though to house changing rooms and costumes.

The film is being directed by Tom Hooper, who won an Oscar for directing The King's Speech.

It is being filmed in the same spot as the recent BBC series Call The Midwife.

The directors held auditions for extras in the film in February at the nearby Rochester Building at the University of Kent.

Thousands of people waited in the cold, hoping to get a part, with some queuing for hours only to be turned away. Those who were selected were due to start filming scenes this week.

The film will be released in Britain on January 11, 2013.

Have you spotted one of the stars in Medway? If so, call the newsroom on 01634 227803.