Former 'Neighbours' actress heads to The Dales

Soap legend Anne Charleston – best known for her stint as Madge Bishop in Neighbours – has joined the cast of Emmerdale.

Charleston will play Lily, the estranged sister of Edna Birch (Shirley Stelfox) who arrives to attend her great niece Eve's wedding blessing. Unbeknown to Edna and Lily, Edna’s son Peter has invited them both to try to get them to make amends. However, a dark family secret will ensure their reunion does not run smoothly.

Of her new role, Anne said: "I am over the moon to be joining one of my favourite soaps and I am delighted to be playing such a fantastic character."

Series Producer Kathleen Beedles added: "We are thrilled to confirm that Anne will be playing the character of Lily. Viewers can expect to see sparks fly when Edna and Lily are reunited and we are looking forward to welcoming Anne on-set."

Meanwhile, actress Raine Davison will also return after a five-year absence from the Yorkshire-based soap. Raine played Edna’s granddaughter Eve Birch for five months in 2001 before leaving to pursue other projects.

Of her return, Raine commented: “I’m very excited and can’t wait to catch up with everyone at Emmerdale.”

Both Anne and Raine will start filming on Monday, September 25, and appear on screen for three episodes from Friday, November 3.