Emmerdale actress and West End star Verity Rushworth is backing the latest venture of a Horsforth child fundraiser by becoming a patron of her charity.

Verity, who plays Donna Windsor-Dingle in the soap, joins Harry Potter actor Matthew Lewis – known to millions as Neville Longbottom – as patron for Bethany’s Smile.

Verity, of Rawdon, said: “I had the pleasure of working with Bethany during a production of Annie at the West Yorkshire Playhouse.

“She is a fantastic example to young adults and I’m honoured to be joining the team, working towards raising funds for the treatment and care of poorly children.”

The 14-year-old fundraiser has already raised more than £50,000 for children with life-threatening illnesses. Her latest project –- May’ke A Million In May – aims to build Smile Cottage, a holiday home in Yorkshire for sick children and their families.

Visit bethanysmile.org or e-mail bethanysmile@virginmedia.com for more about the charity.