Julie Hesmondhalgh, seen here as Corrie's Hayley, is to speak

Unite Against Fascism will not field candidates, but want to raise awareness that European and local elections in the North West will be taking place.

They say they want to prevent the far-right party from enjoying further success at the ballot-box.

Speakers at the launch will include the Coronation Street actor, Julie Hesmondhalgh, who plays Hayley.

The party say they are worried that a Mori poll has shown that only 18% of voters intend to vote in the June European Elections.

'Not fascist'

A spokesman added: "There is also concern regarding the House of Lords decision to oppose plans to have an all-postal vote ballot in the North West.

"The experience from Salford and Trafford is that postal voting increased turnout in elections."

United Against Fascism's campaign will include leafleting, rallies and press conferences.

The BNP has enjoyed some success in the North West.

It had seven seats on Burnley Council until the resignation in February of Maureen Stowe, who left to become an independent councillor.

The BNP has denied it is a fascist party and has accused opposition parties of wanting to stifle free speech.