Billy Elliot producer Jon Finn is to executive produce Johnny Mullagh, the true nineteenth century story of a group of young Aborigines transported overseas to play England's cricket elite.

The project, written by Mark Brickman, is part of the debut feature slate of October Films, the documentary production outfit known for factual programming from award-winning directors.

Also in the works is The Impressionist, a thriller by Paul Herzberg to be executive produced by former FilmFour executive Elinor Day.

Tom Roberts will produce both films for October, which is pushing into features armed with an overheads deal with National Lottery administrator the UK Film Council. As part of that drive, the 12 year-old company has appointed Katie Goodson as a producer.

Previously associate producer at Mission Pictures, Goodson will produce Roberts' feature debut, Boy On The Hill. The story of a teenage boy who dreams of becoming a matador after his father dies is written by Amanda Whittingdon. Goodson will also co-produce Johnny Mullagh and The Impressionist.