Movie magic as Santa comes to town

British actor Jim Broadbent plays the role of the festive figure in new film Get Santa, due to be released at the end of the year.

Roads near Leeds city centre were turned into a film set on Tuesday night.

Filming got underway last week as movie crews also shot several scenes at a house in Rothwell.

Oscar-winning actor Jim Broadbent is best known for his roles in Hot Fuzz, The Iron Lady and the Bridget Jones films.

Actor Warwick Davis, known for his appearances in television shows including Extras, Life’s Too Short, Doctor Who and the Harry Potter films, was also seen on set this week, and seemed to have the role of an elf in the new festive adventure movie.

Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, Leeds City Council’s executive member for leisure and skills, said: “Leeds has a proud history in screen arts and the industry is of huge social and economic benefit to the local area.

“Let’s hope we can look forward to even more success in the near future!”

A £7.5m boost from the European Regional Development Fund, has helped Screen Yorkshire put money towards the Get Santa film, which boasts Ridley Scott as one of the executive producers.

The money will also be invested in other projects including family comedy Bill, and paranormal thriller Residue.

Sally Joynson, chief executive 
at Screen Yorkshire, said: “Leeds has a long track record as a 
major production hub and the creative industries remain an important driver for the city’s economy.”

Meanwhile over in Scarborough, major new BBC drama Remember Me, starring Michael Palin, is currently being filmed.

He said: “Scarborough is a great location and I’ve had a little time this week between shots to get to know the place.”