TV legend Ricky Tomlinson is heading to Middlesbrough Football Club next week as he stops off with his friends at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, June 24th.

The club are promoting it with a Father's Day gift idea theme: the hot supper with the TV star will feature live music, comedy and many memories of Ricky's life

Tomlinson, star of the Royle Family, has won countless awards for his high profile roles.

He first achieved fame playing Bobby Grant in the Channel Four soap Brookside, and as DCI Charlie Wise in the Cracker. His link with Caroline Aherne in the BAFTA award winning Royle Family has been a major part of his long and successful career.

Tomlinson said: “I'm really looking forward to appearing back in Middlesbrough next Saturday night.

“I know the town so well and I have some great friends there. Last time I was in the area I was able to catch up with my old pal Roy 'Chubby' Brown. I was chatting to him only last month and he was telling me how sad he was that his favourite team the Boro had been relegated.

“He had just spent the day with Bernie Slaven at the last home game and was feeling a little flat with the season and the thought of the drop.

“Roy always likes to visit my shows when I'm around Teesside - I'll be calling over to see him and cheer him up this time.

“Football is a major thing for a local community and in Liverpool recently the mood has totally lifted with the resurgence of the team playing in red.’’

In 2001 Tomlinson starred in the film 'Mike Bassett England Manager' playing the hapless and ridiculed national team boss.

It was at this time that he built up a friendship with former Boro star Paul Gascoigne.

Gazza was playing for Everton before his move to the Riverside. Tomlinson said: “Gazza loved the film and he would often call over to see us and watch the film with us at our house.

“He was always great company and I still have one of his signed Everton shirts which he insisted I kept. I often look out for Paul, and I was pleased to see some pictures of him looking so well in the press recently.

“He has my number and knows that If I can ever help him out - I will.’’

The legendary actor will be interviewed during the evening by BBC Tees radio presenter Paul 'Goffy' Gough about his many years at the top, and funny stories from his long list of TV and film credits.

He will also be adding music and comedy to the event ahead of his Teesside visit on June 24th

'A Supper Evening With Ricky Tomlinson ' hosted by BBC Tees presenter 'Goffy' is at the Riverside on Saturday June 24h - tickets are priced at £30 and available via MFC Events Team - 01642 - 757 - 642 or for further information email events@mfc.co.uk