A TELEVISION star is taking to the stage in Bolton to help celebrate a special birthday.

Actor and playwright Nicholas Gleaves will join Bolton Cancer Voices in the Victoria Hall this Saturday.

The choir, whose members are being treated or have been treated for cancer, is holding a concert to celebrate its fifth birthday with the Scott and Bailey actor becoming compere for the evening.

Originally from Halliwell, Nicholas has a very special reason for accepting the choir’s invitation as his mother Patricia is amongst the cast.

Patricia, who lives in Sharples and joined the choir in last year, said: "It's a nice opportunity and he's quite happy to do it.

"It was Karen our chairman who suggested it at our Christmas concert and I asked him. We are a really close family so it is something he would do anyway.

"He is coming up from London with his sister, they will all be there for the concert with my other son.

"We are all looking forward to the concert, it will be quite a treat."

Melodies of Stage & Screen starts at 7.15pm in the historic Bolton venue.

Also joining the region’s first dedicated choir for cancer patients and cancer survivors will be Affetside Choir and Salford Symphony Orchestra, which has performed with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, recorded for BBC Radio 3 and for ITV show Judge Rinder.

The programme offers a night of iconic music from some of the best-known and loved musicals and films.

Nicholas is a familiar face of television, starring in popular series including Playing the Field, Survivors and as DS Andy Roper in ITV detective drama Scott and Bailey, where he appeared alongside wife and fellow actor Lesley Sharp.

Chairman Karen Elliott added: "It’s a huge privilege to have Nicholas with us for this very special night. We appreciate how hectic his schedule must be and are thrilled that he’s available and so kindly agreed to join us.

"Everyone has worked really hard for the event and we’re looking forward to our first experience of singing with an orchestra.

"We hope lots of people will turn up on the night to support us."

The concert is raising funds for the choir and tickets are available in advance from the Victoria Hall Box Office, by calling 01204 883977 and on the door.

Anyone currently receiving treatment for cancer can apply for a free ticket in advance. To find out more contact Karen on 01204 595562 or 07773 164235.