Written by Ben Vanstone (Merlin, EastEnders), the 90-minute film’s cast will also include Stephen Fry, Victoria Wood, Aisling Loftus (Dive), Sharon Horgan (Pulling) and Shaun Dooley (Exile).

Working Title Television’s adaptation of the classic children’s books by Mary Norton will “bring the world of the tiny Borrowers… into the 21st century”.

Ecclestonand Horgan wil play Pod and Homily Clock, the protective parents of Arrietty (Aisling Loftus), “a head-strong teenage Borrower who is desperate to explore life outside her hidden family home”. Victoria Wood will play Grandma Driver, while Stephen Fry will play scientist Professor Mildeye, who is determined to reveal the Borrowers’ identity to the world. Former Misfits star Robbie Sheehan will play leather-jacketed tearaway Spiller.

Danny Cohen, Controller BBC One, commented: “The Borrowers will be part of a really special family Christmas on BBC One and with with its stellar line-up it is set to be a truly wonderful programme.”

Juliette Howell, Head of Television, Working Title, added: “I couldn’t be more thrilled with Ben’s take on this classic story. It feels fresh, original and above all funny. The perfect Christmas treat.”

Directed by Tom Harper (Misfits, This Is England), shooting on The Borrowers will take place this summer for five weeks.

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