Manchester Evening News: Albert square was transformed into an outpost of Hollywood today - with hundreds of actors and camera crew filming new blockbuster Frankenstein. The horror film based on Mary Shelley’s classic tale features Harry Potter actor Daniel Radcliffe and X-Men and former Shameless star James McAvoy.

As revealed in the M.E.N last week, key scenes of the feature will be shot in Manchester, including the town hall and the city’s Northern Quarter.And Albert Square was today turned into a hive of activity with dozens of trailers, crew, extras and even horses and vintage carriages filling up the space. The central quadrangle of the town hall has been transformed into a Victorian shopping arcade - and a sneak peak of the interior set was visible from Lloyd Street. And a horse-drawn carriage, complete with riders in 19th century costume, was seen travelling through Manchester city centre this lunchtime to the amazement of passers-by.

It is not known whether Radcliffe, who stars as the scientist’s assistant Igor, was involved in any town hall scenes. The star has appeared in public sporting shoulder-length hair extensions as part of the role.It is understood that more than 200 extras have been cast to appear in Manchester scenes. Filming will continue next week in the Northern Quarter.