ACTOR Andrew Whyment is set to star in a prestigious bash next month - to raise money for the hospital which saved his life.

Andrew, who plays Kirk in Coronation Street, nearly died in hospital just days after he was born.

He was baptised, confirmed and read his last rights at the same time, and remained in Hope Hospital for two months while his parents kept a bedside vigil.

But now he is to join a host of household names as they sing their hearts out for the glittering fund-raising night to raise money for Hope's baby care unit in Salford.

On Sunday, May 2, Corrie's Suranne Jones and Bruno Langley will perform live on stage along with the Phoenix Nights crew, including Bolton's Paddy McGuinness and Archie Knox, on Sunday May 2.

Key 103 Breakfast Show DJs JK and Joel - who have signed lucrative contracts with Radio 1 - will host the night, at The Willows, on Willows Road, Salford.

Bradshaw actor Andrew said: "It's going to a brilliant night and the cast of Coronation Street were completely up for it.

"I really wanted to take part in the night because the cause is very close to my heart. They saved my life and do a great job."

The 19-year-old has gone from strength-to-strength and still feels indebted to the nurses at Hope Hospital for helping him survive. He has starred in the hit BBC2 comedy, The Royle Family, as dodgy Darren and has headed for even greater fame as Kirk in Coronation Street.

Patrick, who plays doorman Paddy in Phoenix Nights, said: "When Andrew rang me, I was only too happy to help out - it's for a really great cause.

"Archie and I will do a bit of stand-up comedy and a little bit of singing - well, Archie will sing, I'll just chip in every now and then."

Tickets cost £20 and be bought by phoning 0161 736 8541.