An actor who has appeared in Harry Potter, EastEnders and Coronation Street is urging people to help mums around the world rather than buy a traditional Mother’s Day gift this Sunday.

Sophie Thompson, a six-time Olivier Award nominee and mother-of-two who grew up in West Hampstead, has partnered with the international charity Mary’s Meals.

Instead of regular presents, Ms Thompson encourages people to purchase a Mary’s Meals gift card to help feed 2.4 million hungry children in 18 of the world's poorest countries.

The charity's work is often down to volunteer mums across the world, who prepare the food for the children.

Ham & High: A serving of Mary’s Meals every school day alleviates the pressure on Victoria to feed her familyA serving of Mary’s Meals every school day alleviates the pressure on Victoria to feed her family (Image: Mary's Meals)

The actor said: "The strength and sacrifice of some of these mums, many of whom volunteer their time to come to the schools and prepare meals for the children, is simply awe-inspiring.

"Every child deserves to have the best start in life and by supporting Mary’s Meals you can help make this a possibility."

Dan McNally, head of grassroots engagement at Mary’s Meals, said: "We are beyond grateful to have so many fantastic mums, like Sophie, who, as well as caring for their own children, fundraise and volunteer for Mary’s Meals."

Gift cards start from £19.15 and can feed a child a daily meal for an entire school year.

Those interested can purchase the cards at marysmeals.org.uk/shop.