HAMLET star Maxine Peake is famed for treading the boards — but later this month she will be pounding the pavements at this year's Midnight Memories walk.

The actress will be joined at the starting line with her pal Emma Neville, wife of footballer Gary, to help raise money for the hospice's annual fundraiser.

Maxine, aged 40, became vice president of Bolton Hospice two years ago after her mum Glenys died in 2008 and has supported the its campaigns ever since.

She said: “I am again very honoured to be asked to take part in an event for Bolton Hospice. I am very proud to be associated with this exceptional organisation. They took wonderful care of my mum during her final days and for that I will always be indebted. The hospice is a vital resource and has been a blessing to its patients and their families. So let's dig deep and raise as much as we can and support our wonderful walkers.”

On the night, June 20, Maxine and Emma will be joined by more than 1,500 men, women and children who have all signed up to walk for their own personal reasons.

Mrs Neville said: "Everyone knows someone affected by cancer and this is a cause close to my heart. I am hoping to raise much needed sponsorship so that the hospice can continue their fantastic work caring for patients and families who are facing incurable illnesses. I will be proud to walk at the front for all these patients."

To date this event has raised over £2 million for the hospice and organisers are hoping to raise a further £100,000 this year.

Maria Passarello, events manager at the hospice, said: "It is fantastic that both Maxine and Emma are joining us for this year's Midnight Memories Walk. Their support of this event shows how important it is for those taking part and for the hospice. We are truly grateful to have them on board."

Registration for the Midnight Memories Walk, which starts at 10pm on Saturday, June 20 closes on Sunday. To sign up or for more information visit boltonhospice.org.uk/mmw