Hollywood star Warwick Davis proves big hit with kids

The ten-year-old Mexborough Highwoods Primary pupil, who has dwarfism caused by a rare genetic condition, welcomed Star Wars actor Warwick into school on Tuesday to talk about his memoir Size Matters Not.

Willow star Warwick agreed to visit the school after meeting Tyler at a convention of the charity Little People UK (LPUK), founded by the actor’s wife Samantha to help people with dwarfism.

Tyler raised £500 for LPUK with a sponsored hike last year and his mum, Claire Fletcher, has signed up for a skydive next year to bring in more funds.

Tuesday’s visit saw 44-year-old Warwick showing clips from his films, telling stories about his experiences and answering pupils’ questions: “I was really excited about Warwick coming to school.

“It was a lot of fun.

“I have seen a lot of his films and he’s a really good actor.”

Claire (32) said Tyler had been delighted to have the chance to introduce his classmates to the film star, who he considers a friend.

“I asked him on Monday night what he was looking forward to about the day and he said he was just going to take a step back and let his friends enjoy the moment,” she said.

“I was a bit star-struck when we first met Warwick but he has become like a friend to us and he’s a great role model for Tyler as he has the same condition, spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia.

“It was a lovely day — I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Head teacher Diane Dunn said staff only found out last week that they would have a Hollywood veteran on the premises.

She added: “The children all know him from Star Wars and Harry Potter but a lot of the staff were as excited to meet him, too.

“There was no entourage or ceremony with Warwick.

“He turned up just with his wife, driving a normal car — there was no limousine or anything.

“The children were enthralled by his presentation and afterwards he said he had enjoyed himself.

“He said the school was very warm and welcoming, which was lovely to hear.”

Among Tyler’s star memorabilia is a picture of Warwick playing the Star Wars Ewok character Wicket, which the actor signed for him.

Warwick also presented the school with a signed copy of his book.

LPUK hosts conferences and other events for people living with dwarfism to meet and share their experiences.

For more information visit www.littlepeopleuk.org or write to Little People UK, PO Box 1292, Peterborough, PE2 2NT.