The Salford-born singer is one of the judges on BBC1's Last Choir Standing, which begins next month.

Hosted by Nick Knowles and Myleene Klass, the latest television talent series features a nationwide search for the country's favourite choir.

Russell, 41, will be joined on the judging panel by actress and singer Sharon D. Clarke and choral conductor Suzi Digby. It will be his first primetime screen appearance since he had a brain tumour removed for the second time last October.

An MRI scan revealed that a benign tumour removed in 2006 had re-grown and was bleeding.

He has since undergone an intensive course of radiotherapy at Manchester's Christie Hospital and a new fitness regime.

`The Voice' also begins a tour next month, including what is expected to be an emotional homecoming at the M.E.N. Arena on June 19.

From 60 choirs at the auditions, the panel of judges will decide which 15 will go through to the studio heats.

Six choirs will then make it through to the live Saturday shows where the judges and the public will vote each week for who they want to save, until there is only one - the Last Choir Standing.

The show comes from the same TV team behind Strictly Come Dancing, I'd Do Anything and Any Dream Will Do.

Co-host Myleene said: "I'm really excited to be involved in Last Choir Standing and the search to find the nation's favourite choir. We're going to be seeing such a wide range of choirs with different styles and personalities - there will definitely be something to suit everyone's taste."

Co-presenter Nick added: "The public will be treated to some fantastic performances and it will ultimately be up to them to decide who will be the Last Choir Standing

Source: Manchester Evening News