The actor, who has starred in last Summer's blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean and was dubbed sexiest man alive by People magazine, is set to play Willy Wonka in a new version of the Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

And the Chronicle has heard that scenes from the film will be shot at Stratton Business Park.

Producers Warner Bros were unable to confirm the reports, saying that although it was possible someone working on the film had been looking at locations for filming, the search would not begin in earnest until it had been cast.

Businesses at Stratton park were mystified by the rumours, with a spokesman for Saxon Valley Foods commenting: "We haven't heard anything but it's caused quite a stir. We could all be Oompa Loompas."

The film, which will be directed by Tim Burton, will tell the tale of a reclusive chocolate manufacturer who opens his factory to golden ticket winners.

It was first brought to the screen in 1971, when Gene Wilder played Willy Wonka.

For the full story see the January 9 edition of the Chronicle.