New siblings for Emmerdale

Emmerdale is set to introduce a new set of siblings to the Yorkshire dales who will take the village “ by storm”.

Eldest brother Jai Sharma will be played by East is East star Chris Bisson, while Torchwood hottie Rik Makarem stars as Nikhil.

The entrepreneurial siblings hit screens in September when they arrive in the village to manage the new confectionary factory. Joining them will be their stunning younger sister Priya played by Hollyoaks in the City actress Effie Woods.

Bisson, 34, has a wealth of television experience, most recently starring in Channel 4’s award-winning drama Shameless for three years as Kash Karib.

“Jai is a bit of a charmer and has an eye for the ladies but he’s also a hard worker with a good business mind. I’m delighted to be joining Emmerdale at a time when the show is going from strength to strength. I can’t wait to get started.” – Chris Bisson

Yorkshire-born Makarem, 27, recently finished filming a new series of Foyle’s War for ITV.

“Nikhil is a fiercely ambitious and determined individual, but having lived in the shadow of his brother in the past, he has an indomitable spirit and drive to make the factory a success. He’s very quick-witted and extremely protective of his younger sister. I’m really looking forward to filming my first scenes later this month.” – Rik Makarem

Effie Woods, 28, added that she was “absolutely thrilled” to have been cast in the production while  series producer, Gavin Blyth, notes the new arrivals “will add real vitality” to the rural saga.

This is the latest in a series of signings for the soap as it continues to march into an exciting new era. Others include Cutting It actress Sian Reeves as Sally Spode and the much-anticipated return of Charity Tate, when Emma Atkins reprises her role in October.