ACTOR Maxine Peake called for direct action against the government yesterday, as thousands plan to march on the Tory conference in a month’s time.

Her comments came ahead of a public rally in central Manchester, where Ms Peake will lead a string of celebrity campaigners including Coronation Street actress Julie Hesmondalgh and presenter Terry Christian.

“Direct action is the only way to stem the constant ruthless attacks on our society by this arrogant and vicious system,” said Ms Peake.