British Jewish actor Robert Kazinsky is on his way to Middle Earth.

Mr Kazinsky, better known to Eastenders fans as Sean Slater, has been named as one of the cast members for the upcoming film of The Hobbit.

Peter Jackson, who directed the Lord of the Rings trilogy, has signed up Mr Kazinsky for two films based on the classic J.R.R. Tolkien novel.

While the other films were made in New Zealand, the prequels are to be shot at a film studio in Watford.

Mr Kazinsky will take on the role of Fili, a member of the Company of Dwarves. The actor tweeted after the news was announced: “Thank you all for your support and well wishing.

“Looking forward to some orc slaying!”

The 26-year-old actor, who once appeared in an Israeli advert, set a record in 2008 when he and Rita Simons - barmaid Roxy Mitchell – shared what was believed to be the BBC soap’s first Jewish kiss.