Michelle Visage, Charlotte Riley and Steph McGovern join BBC comedy Smoggie Queens

Michelle Visage, Charlotte Riley and Steph McGovern are to star in a new BBC comedy.

The trio are among a star-studded cast who will appear in 'Smoggie Queens', which is based around a group of pals who are fiercely proud of their North Eastern town of Middlesbrough.

'RuPaul's Drag Race UK' judge Michelle said: "Filming 'Smoggie Queens' was an absolute joy, and I am so excited for everyone to meet Elaine, an uptight office assistant, who I had so much fun playing - wait until you meet her!

"The script is brilliant, the costumes are amazing, and I loved being amongst Middlesbrough royalty for the day! I’m an official Smoggie now!"

'Peaky Blinders' star Charlotte added: "Being back in Teesside working with Phil and the team on this incredible project has been the most awesome experience. Not sure I've met a more funny and fabulous cast.

"We had the best laugh ever making this show and I can’t wait to watch it. Just so, so grateful I got to be a part of it."

The six-episode series will tell the story of self-styled hun Lucinda, who is played by former 'Coronation Street' star Alexandra Mardell, volatile Dickie - portrayed by show writer and Middlesbrough native Phil Dunning - drag queen Mam (Mark Benton), awkward Sal (Patsy Lowe) and newcomer Stewart (Elijah Young) as they navigate love, life and their pride for a town that feels neglected.

Michelle, Charlotte and TV presenter Steph are all part of the supporting cast, as is 'Ted Lasso' and 'Corrie' star Bill Fellows, and fellow actors Lauryn Redding, Peter McPherson, Neil Grainger, and Michael Mather.

Phil added: "I feel so stupidly lucky that such an incredibly talented cast agreed to come and be part of 'Smoggie Queens'.

"They were an absolute dream to work with and I’m in awe and adulation of every single one of them."

'Smoggie Queens' will be coming to BBC Three and iPlayer this Autumn.