BIG SCREEN stars are visiting Bradford for the filming of a new TV drama.

Rupert Grint and John Malkovich are among the cast taking part in the filming of a new Hercule Poirot drama for the BBC.

The Mammoth Screen and Agatha Christie Limited adaptation of The ABC Murders for BBC One is filming in the city over the next few days.

The crew will be filming at locations around Bradford, including City Hall.

Onlookers were curious as to what was being filmed inside City Hall on Tuesday morning.

Katya Kitchingman, a lecturer at Bradford College University Centre, said: “It’s great to see the city being used in this way.

“The town hall is one of our most beautiful buildings and it’s lovely to see its former glory being brought to life by the period drama being filmed here today.”

A businessman visiting the city also commented on how projects like this were useful to the city.

Tim Sharp, of Nuneaton, said: “I’m visiting Bradford town hall today as it’s what one knows is worth visiting.

“I’m a great supporter of using places like this, it’s a great idea and if nothing else, there is money coming into the city because of cast and crew members staying in hotel rooms, and renting out space in the town hall to film.”

Mr Sharp said he was visiting the city to use the services of a small business.

The latest filming will bring further recognition to Bradford.

John Malkovich, speaking to the BBC last month, said: “I’m honoured to have been asked to play Hercule Poirot.

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“It’s a role that’s been played by a number of excellent actors, and I am enjoying the numerous challenges this part presents.

“I have great respect for Sarah Phelps’ screenplay and hope to do both she and Agatha Christie’s creation some measure of justice.”

David Wilson, director of Bradford UNESCO City of Film, said: “This is another of a long line of productions coming to Bradford.

“It’s good for our economy and for Bradford’s reputation. We have well-preserved heritage areas.”

BAFTA-nominated writer Sarah Phelps returns to explore the 20th century through Christie’s work.

This time the setting is the 1930s; a time when the nation is dangerously divided and suspicion and hatred are on the rise. In the midst of this Poirot faces a serial killer known only as A.B.C. First the killer strikes in Andover, then Bexhill. As the murder count rises, the only clue is the copy of The ABC Railway Guide at each crime scene.

The one-off three-part drama will be aired this Christmas on BBC One.