"We feel the committee did not consider the evidence properly, " said Ballymena official Billy Bell.

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It was recently reported that Billy Elliot star Jamie Bell was set to succeed Radcliffe in the role.

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Stephen Daldry, who directed Bell in Billy Elliot and has remained good friends with the young star, was also among the guests.

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Billy Elliot, the Musical is based on the 2000 Oscar-nominated film which starred Jamie Bell.

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Bell became an international success with his screen debut as a ballet dancing youngster in Daldry's Billy Elliot three years ago.

BBC: Stars gather at Nickleby premi��re