Daniel Coll directs and stars in the York set family film, with Irish performers Fiona Sinnott and Joe Savino among the cast. Cameras are due to roll in October.
Irish talent is joining a host of familiar British television faces aboard The Santa Express, a new family Christmas feature preparing to film in York and on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Toyah Willcox plays Nancy, with Doctor Who and Blue Peter favourite Peter Purves as Father Christmas. Fiona Sinnott and Joe Savino join Victoria Ekanoye, Lisa George and Olwen May in the ensemble.
British and Irish actor and filmmaker Daniel Coll directs, produces and stars as Bob Browning. David C Thorp wrote the screenplay and is the film’s cinematographer. Bob’s journey into a world of elves, trains and Christmas wonder gives a family a chance to rediscover love and belief. The character led story brings classic British eccentricity, warmth and humour to the York setting.
“I’m delighted to have such talented actors and friends on board. With this superb cast, we know we are in safe hands, and we will bring a lovely family Christmas film to audiences this year,” said Coll.
Coll’s screen credits include Emmerdale and Braveheart. On stage, he played Enjolras in Les Misérables and was one of the actors playing Billy’s dad in the original West End production of Billy Elliot the Musical. Sinnott is an Irish theatre and screen performer; Savino’s credits include The Crying Game, Braveheart and Ballykissangel. Willcox appeared in Jubilee and Quadrophenia; Purves played Steven Taylor in Doctor Who. Ekanoye is known for Coronation Street and The Royals, George for Coronation Street, and May for Happy Valley and The Bay.
Filming is planned for October 2026. The team is aiming to bring the film to audiences for Christmas 2026. Cast interviews, approved portraits and York filming opportunities can be arranged through Argon PR & Talent.
Irish Stars Fiona Sinnott and Joe Savino Cast in The Santa Express
