ACTRESS Gemma Atkinson will be joined by members of the cast of Coronation Street and Emmerdale at a star-studded black tie ball in aid of Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary.

Animal lover Miss Atkinson, 32, is vice president of the charity, which cares for dogs, cats, horses and farm animals and relies solely on voluntary contributions.

“Being a local, I’ve been visiting Bleakholt since I was a child,” she said. “They work tirelessly to help all the animals. The 60th birthday black tie ball is set to be a great night and I’m really excited to be performing too.

“We hope local people will get behind us in attending and join us to celebrate the continued hard work of their local animal charity” The black tie ball will take place on Saturday, April 1, from 6.30pm at Stables Country Club in Bury. Famous faces from Emmerdale, including Laura Norton and Michelle Hardwick, will also take to the stage to perform a light-hearted singing and dance routine for guests.

Tickets for the ball cost £60 per person, and include a four-course meal, raffle, auction and entertainment provided by ‘Helen’s Angels’ performing Arts Academy. Discounts are available for tables of 10. To book, call 0161 762 4000.