Denise Welch to join the cast of Hollyoaks to play Nikki Sanderson’s on-screen mother

Denise Welch has announced she is joining the cast of Hollyoaks to play Nikki Sanderson’s on-screen mother.

The TV star, known for roles in Coronation Street and Waterloo Road, will be playing Trish, mother of Maxine Minniver - played by Sanderson - a dance teacher “with a dark side”.

Welch previously starred opposite Sanderson in Coronation Street, when they played Natalie Barnes and Candice Stowe respectively.

She told ITV show Loose Women, where she is a panellist: “I’m going to be playing my lovely Nikki Sanderson’s mum, Trish, who is a dance teacher with a slightly dark side.”

Welch, who has been married to artist Lincoln Townley since 2013, joked her husband might need to step in as a body double for some scenes.

“I’ve got a hunky new lover,” she said.

“Because of Covid restrictions, he’s probably very glad he doesn’t have to kiss me, but they’ve also mentioned there may be times that Lincoln might have to be a body double if there’s any jiggy jigs.”

The star who has been a regular on the daytime television chat show since 2018, said she would still be able to appear on Loose Women.

“I’m still going to be able to do Loose. I’m excited because I miss my acting. I love the show.

“It’s their 25th anniversary and I feel very honoured that this role has been created. It’s fabulous.”

Welch has known about the new role for the past couple of months. She will first appear as Trish on screen in January 2021.

The actress said: “I’ve known for about six weeks.”

Hollyoaks currently airs new episodes from Mondays to Thursdays at 6.30pm on Channel 4, with first look screenings at 7pm on E4.