Ex-EastEnders star Wendy Richard who has been struck by cancer is marrying her long-term partner later.

The actress brought the date of the ceremony forward after learning the devastating news that the disease had returned.

She is to start chemotherapy on Monday.

Richard, who has beaten cancer twice previously, found the cancer had returned to her left armpit during an annual check-up in January.

It has since spread to her right kidney and her bones.

Around 60 family members and close friends are thought to be attending the civil ceremony and reception.

Richard has been with her partner John Burns, who is 20 years the star's junior, for 13 years.

The wedding is thought to be taking place in a hotel in the West End of London, near to where the actress was brought up.

Richard's former co-stars including Barbara Windsor are expected to attend, as well as friends like Dale Winton.

On-screen daughter-in-law Natalie Cassidy, who played Sonia in the soap, will also be there.

Preparations for the event have been rushed, with Richard saying just days ago that the couple had not had time to buy their outfits, order a wedding cake or flowers.