Saoirse Ronan for The Hobbit?

Saoirse Ronan is "hopeful" she may have a part in 'The Hobbit'.

The Irish actress has previously worked with the film's director Sir Peter Jackson on 'The Lovely Bones' - which like the fantasy epic was also shot in New Zealand - and thinks she may be involved with the movie, which recently began shooting.

She said: "Pete is adding a lot of characters in the film adaption. Hopefully they have a part for me.

"It would be great to go back. I love Pete. It's such an amazing family unit down there because it's such a small country, and they use a lot of the same crew."

Although she refused to confirm what character she might play, she admitted internet site IMDB.com had her down as an elf.

Saoirse added to the Los Angeles Times: "On IMDB they say I'm playing an elf. We'll just have to figure it all out."

Martin Freeman has signed on to portray Bilbo Baggins in the movie, with comrades including James Nesbitt and Rob Kazinsky.

The majority of the cast of 'Lord of the Rings' will star in the forthcoming prequels, including Sir Ian McKellen as wizard Gandalf and Cate Blanchett as Galadriel, but Liv Tyler - who played Arwen - will not be returning for the movie.

She said recently: "I haven't heard from anybody and that makes me kind of sad."