EX-Eastenders bad boy John Altman is set to star in a pandemic radio drama coming to Bolton FM.

Altman, who played 'Nasty Nick' Cotton in the BBC soap will feature in Greenborne, the story of a village looking to rebuild after the pandemic.

Community radio stations like Bolton FM will air the serial, which also stars Bergerac's Louise Jameson and Emmerdale's Corrine Wicks, in the summer.

Altman said: "I am very excited about Greenborne as it's not only a part I could really get my teeth into, but it is also about hope and rebirth, amongst many other things, and will appeal to the whole family.

"It is a little bit of escapism at a time when we need it most."

Producers say the soap plays out against the backdrop of the virus but is quick to celebrate the resilience of villagers after the pandemic.

Creator Colin Blake said: "At their best soaps offer up a mirror to society, allowing us to see our daily hopes and fears played out amongst a cast of characters that we can empathise and identify with."

More than 20 radio stations have expressed an interest in broadcasting Greenborne, says the production team.