Star Wars: Fans que for hours at first open auditions for Episode VII roles

Hundreds braved the undesirable weather for a chance to be cast in a role in the upcoming film

Eager hopefuls queued for hours in miserable weather for a chance to be cast in the new Star Wars movie, after producers threw open the floodgates for all to apply in open auditions.

Auditions began at 11am today in Bristol - the first of several sessions across the country - for the casting of two characters which fans believe could be for the next episode of the series created by George Lucas.

Aspiring actress Jasmine Du'Pre was the first to face casting bosses today. After her 'two minute' audition she tweeted: "Audition was about 5 mins- few mins with forms,about 2 mins being interviewed. All my love+best wishes to all going 4it starwarsaudition".

However, some were left disappointed by the lengthy queues, forcing organisers to close the barriers by 9am. Kayley Meta tweeted:"Don't bother going to the Star Wars auditions. Que was close before it even started."

The casting notes for the two roles were rather specific about the type of individual producers wanted to see auditioning.

It is searching for a "street smart" actress over 16 and a "smart, capable" 18-plus male, with both expected to be attractive and athletic.

The role of “Rachel” (unlikely to be the character's real name) is open to all ethnicities, but the actress must be over 16.

The character “was quite young when she lost her parents. With no other family she was forced to make her way in tough, dangerous town. Now 17, she has become street smart and strong. She is able to take care of herself using humour and guts to get by”.

The film is also looking for a man aged 18 or over to play “ Thomas”, who is aged between 19 and 23.

He “has grown up without a father's influence, without the model of being a man,” the note says.

“He doesn't have the strongest sense of himself. Despite this he is smart, capable and shows courage when it is needed."

Star Wars Episode VII is due to be released on 18 December 2015.