POOLE actor Edward Lewis French has just joined the new London cast of the global smash hit musical Mamma Mia! at the Prince of Wales Theatre.

Linzi Hateley continues to head the cast as Donna Sheridan.

Based on the songs of Abba, the show celebrates its ninth London birthday this April.

Edward, 24, who grew up in Lower Parkstone and trained at Arts Educational School in Tring, says he is thrilled about being signed up for 14 months, allowing him to be part of its 10th anniversary celebrations next year.

Mamma Mia! will be just another top West End show to add to his long list of achievements which have included Evita (Adelphi), Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang (West End and tour) and Gus in Saturday Night Fever (tour).

It all started for Edward when his mum was involved in various local am-dram groups.

One night she couldn't get a babysitter, took Edward along and he absolutely loved it. He was six years old.

He recalls he auditioned for Michael Rose's Poole panto The Wizard of Oz in 1991 when he was eight.

"I was the youngest there and couldn't put my right foot in front of my left but I got a part."

After that he got the part of Kurt in The Sound of Music on tour followed by a run at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre - also produced by Michael Rose.

It was the show in which Amanda Holden made her professional debut playing his sister.

Edward recalls: "When I was younger I think I was just a little bit of a cocky git. I turned up with blond hair and blue eyes and smiled and I just happened to look like what they wanted.

"As I've got older obviously they've needed more experience but even now it's often down to luck, fitting the bill, matching the height and face to the costume. This business can be quite fickle."

Edward, who plays Sky, the young romantic role, added: "Each thing I've done has been another small step up but Mamma Mia! is a fantastic production and such a massive success, it's a real honour to be part of it - especially to be in London when it celebrates its 10th anniversary next year".