Zeta Jones is charity's ambassador

Actress Catherine Zeta Jones is to become an ambassador for the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, it was announced today

The Oscar-winning star and mother-of-two will spearhead the charity's Full Stop appeal in her native Wales.

She said: "My childhood in Wales was a very happy one. However, I know that not all children are so lucky and I therefore want to do all I can, especially as a parent myself, to help keep them free from harm.

"Wales is still my home and I am delighted to be part of the NSPCC's very important work across the country."

Zeta Jones and husband Michael Douglas have two children - Dylan, five, and Carys, two.

The actress has stayed close to her Welsh roots and recently built a £2 million home in Swansea, where she grew up.

The Full Stop campaign aims to end cruelty to children.

Launched in 1999, it hopes to raise £250 million for the cause.

Stanley Thomas, chairman of the Full Stop appeal in Wales, said: "I am thrilled that Catherine has decided to lend her support.

"With Catherine's help we can go forward to achieving our goal of creating a society where all children are loved, valued and able to fulfil their potential."

Zeta Jones joins Kylie Minogue and England rugby star Jonny Wilkinson as an NSPCC ambassador.