Emmerdale star Mark Charnock has shared details of a new project away from the soap, describing himself as “proud” to lead a new campaign.
The star is best known for his role as Marlon Dingle on the ITV soap, a role that he has played since 1996, but appeared on Good Morning Britain to discuss his film, Life Long Fans, which has been created in support of the 1 Million Minutes campaign.
The campaign, which aims to tackle loneliness in the UK, was discussed by hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls as Charnock appeared in the studio, with the actor praising viewers for pledging to the campaign.
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“I think it's a testament to the people in this country, the generosity of spirit,” he said. “What could be more generous? People give money, and it's amazing. It makes such a difference, but what could be more generous than giving yourself?
“The small things you can do that can make such big changes to people – change their lives, make everything better, and I think it's a wonderful thing,” he added in reference to the film, the trailer of which debuted on Monday (December 2).
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“I’m so proud to be supporting this year’s Good Morning Britain's 1 Million Minutes campaign,” Charnock said in a statement. “When I was asked to direct this year’s film, I was completely flattered and a bit shocked and scared.
“I had seen a couple of the other films down the years, and I'd done a few bits for the campaign, so I knew what it was about already and how significant it is to so many people. We’ve all experienced feeling lonely.
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“With millions of people in the UK suffering from chronic loneliness, we’re asking you to pledge some of your time to help them this winter. Whether it’s a neighbour, a family member, a friend, or even a stranger, pledging just a few moments of your time can really make a difference.”
“The 1 Million Minutes campaign is so important,” Reid added. “Every year we aim to help people across the country who are feeling lonely or isolated by raising pledges of time.
“This year I’m joining a volunteer hosting an afternoon tea for a magnificent lady who is about to turn 108, and Ed will be showing off his culinary skills as a lunch club volunteer. We really hope that our amazing viewers can offer some of their own time as together we can help tackle loneliness.”
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.
