ACTOR Kevin Whately has come to the aid of a much-anticipated Holocaust memorial show.

Organisers of Darkness to Light, which will mark the 70th anniversary of the Durham Light Infantry liberating Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, lost Samuel Barnett from their line-up when The History Boys actor pulled out to join the National Theatre production of The Beaux’ Stratagem.

But Hexham-born Whately, best known for playing Robbie Lewis in crime dramas Inspector Morse and Lewis and Nev in Auf Wiedersehen Pet, has now stepped in.

He will read extracts of Jewish poetry in the show, which will take place at Durham Cathedral on Saturday, April 18.

“I am delighted to be taking part in what promises to be a very moving event commemorating the liberation of Bergen-Belsen at Durham Cathedral and supporting this year’s Holocaust Memorial Day Trust them of Keeping the Memory Alive,” the 64-year-old said.

“Keeping the memory of such terrible events alive becomes more vital with each year that passes.”

Also giving readings will be Dame Esther Rantzen and Emma Hignett – a voiceover artist best known as the voice of London’s buses.

There will be survivors’ stories and classical music featuring soprano Penelope Randall-Davis and tenor James Edwards, the Reg Vardy Band and four choirs and conducted by Alistair Dawes.

There will be music from Beethoven, Puccini, Verdi and Mozart, plus a new commission by Durham-born composer Will Todd.

The show starts at 8pm. Tickets are £8 to 22. To book, call 03000-266-600. For more information, visit interopera.org