Nicole Barber-Lane running London Marathon

Hollyoaks star Nicole Barber-Lane has revealed she will run the London Marathon.

The actress, who plays Myra McQueen on the teen soap, will attempt the 26 mile marathon event on April 13.

Nicole will run to raise money for the Jeans For Genes charity, which funds research into genetic disorders.

"One of my friends sent me a text message saying: 'Sorry I haven't been in touch. I've been in hospital because when I heard you were doing the marathon I collapsed!'" Nicole told the Hollyoaks website.

The soapstar added: "I had an ex-boyfriend contact me saying 'Oh my god, I remember when I had to drag you home', because I just wouldn't walk! People who know me are like 'are you insane?'"

The actress first appeared in the Chester-based soap in 2006 and her character was recently arrested after she was found cheating on benefits.

Barber-Lane has also appeared in Emmerdale, Bodies and The Cops.