Makarem: 'I hope I stay in Emmerdale'

Emmerdale newcomer Rik Makarem has revealed that he wants a long-term future with the soap.

The 27-year-old actor will make his debut as Nikhil Sharma on the ITV1 show this Friday.

Nikhil's first storyline sees him opening a sweet factory with his brother Jai (Chris Bisson) and sister Priya (Effie Woods), who are also new arrivals in the village.

Discussing his hopes for the trio, Makarem told the Glasgow Sunday Mail: "I'm contracted until the new year but I am hoping the Sharmas are here to stay. It would be great if they became permanent fixtures."

The star also admitted that he was stunned to be offered the part after growing up as a fan of the Yorkshire-based drama.

"When I got the call I couldn't speak and my mum thought something awful had happened," he explained. "When I told her I was going to be in Emmerdale, she started jumping around the living room. My whole family grew up watching the action in the Dales and I can't quite believe I'm now going to be part of it.

"Playing a ladies' man will not be hard as the Emmerdale girls are all stunning. Edna Birch better watch out."

Makarem has previously appeared in Torchwood and recently filmed an episode of ITV1's Foyle's War.