JAPANESE tourists are eager to have their picture taken with her.

Schoolgirl Claire Sinker, 11, has felt like a celebrity ever since she stepped into the shoes of Alice in Wonderland.

Her mum, Jane, said: "Loads of people from abroad, Japan, Israel and America, have all wanted to have their picture taken with her.

"With her blonde hair, they think she looks just like Alice."

Ballet dancer Alice has followed in the footsteps of Daresbury born author Lewis Carroll, visiting Christchurch where he lectured maths and his famous secret garden.

She loves reading about the characters in his much loved childrens' book.

"We live on a farm, she adores animals," said her mum. "She is very very sporty and loves the outdoor life."

Claire, of Grappenhall, recently launched an Alice in Wonderland exhibition at Norton Priory Museum, which runs until September 9. Appointed by the Lewis Carroll Society, she shares the role of Alice with 11-year-old Zoe Isherwood.