Actress Helen Mackay stars in radio play with Billy Connolly and Brian Cox

THURSO actress Helen Mackay found herself working with two of Scotland’s biggest stars when she got a part in a BBC radio drama which will be broadcast on Christmas Day.

Helen will be playing a role in The Quest of Donal Q, which was written by David Ashton. It is loosely based on the classic tale of Don Quixote and stars Billy Connolly and Brian Cox as brothers who join forces in an adventure across Scotland to trace a childhood sweetheart.

"I recorded my first radio drama for Radio 4 back in June and was delighted to be asked back to Maida Vale Studios in London to be involved in another," said Mackay.

"When I found out it was to star Billy Connolly and Brian Cox I was so excited and also very nervous. Although I play a very small part, getting the chance to work with such well-known actors was such a great experience.

"I was very nervous at the thought of standing at the microphone with Billy Connolly but he was so nice and had lots of stories and fond memories of touring to Caithness in the past. Billy and Brian worked so well together, I think it will be a real treat for listeners ."

The Quest of Donal Q will be broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland on Christmas Day at 2pm.