Panettiere hails stars' election work

Rex Features

Hayden Panettiere has praised the work of celebrities in raising awareness of this week's US Presidential election.

The Heroes actress hailed the publicity garnered by stars of the entertainment industry ahead of voters going to the polls on Tuesday.

"One of the major reasons why young people have come out and done so much to play a part in this election - and who are really getting out there and voting this time around - is because of the celebrity endorsements," she said.

Panettiere recently released a spoof video in which she sarcastically urged voters to choose Republican candidate John McCain.

Pamela Anderson and Matt Damon have also spoken out against McCain's campaign, questioning the suitability of his running mate Sarah Palin.