Lyra auditions arrive in Oxford

Auditions for the lead role in the His Dark Materials films came home on Tuesday, as film makers arrived in Oxford to continue the hunt for Lyra.

The fantasy story, which starts in an alternative version of Oxford, is about a young girl called Lyra Belacqua.

Auditions have already taken place in Cambridge and Kendal, and thousands of girls have taken part.

Casting director Fiona Weir said: "All the kids have been brilliantly positive and energetic and a joy to meet."

Click here to see pictures from earlier Lyra auditions

Orlaith from Northern Ireland

Some kids travelled a long way to try for the part. One girl, Orlaith, told Newsround: "I've come down from Northern Ireland, so I got up at 3am."

Another of the casting directors, Lucy Deaven, explained why they were going to such trouble to find the right girl.

"Lyra's special because she's brave, courageous, intelligent, imaginative and very loyal. She's in practically every scene of the film."

The final audition will be held at the University of Exeter's Great Hall (The Great Hall, Streatham Campus, University of Exeter) on 13 April.