SOME of the biggest names from the silver screen could descend on Horsforth when filming begins on a multi-million pound remake of Agatha Christie's classic, Murder on the Orient Express.

Movie legends Lauren Bacall, Burt Reynolds, Sophia Loren, Dame Judi Dench and Claire Bloom are all thought to be included in the cast of the lavish crime epic.

When the stars reach the township, they will be heading for the new Transformer Studios, part of an old textile warehouse, where a replica buffet car from the famous train has already been installed.

Horsfordians are preparing to roll out the red carpet for the stars when filming starts in the country's largest village on February 6.

Fat Franco's Restaurant in New Road Side has already invited Sophia Loren for a meal.

A spokesman said: "Move over Hollywood, Horsforth's on the scene! Los Angeles and London are nothing compared to Horsforth, we should have more movies made here.

"I look forward to seeing Sophia Loren in the restaurant."

Councillor Chris Townsley, who has appeared on television dozens of times in walk-on parts, is already coveting a part in the new film and is looking forward to taking Miss Loren to the Fleece for a pint.

He said: "I'd love to be in the film - I'm getting my agent on to it, it would be a dream come true.

"Horsforth has everything the stars could want - plenty of pubs, and restaurants of every imaginable type and I can guarantee all the stars that we'll welcome them with open arms. I'm sure the Americans will find our history and the museum fascinating.

"Having the film made here is wonderful for Horsforth and will hopefully put us on the map, which is what we deserve."

A spokesman from the Eleventh Earl pub added: "If Burt Reynolds wants to sample a pint of Horsforth's best, he's welcome here - and he can have one on the house."

Horsforth Civic Society chairman John Brodwell added: "It is tremendously prestigious for Horsforth and I can't wait to meet them all."

Studio owners Robert and Laura Stroud originally ran their textiles business from the site and decided to set up their studios when they were approached by Yorkshire Television