Jim Royle, meet

HE was the lovable loser, a quick-witted layabout adored by a generation.

And now Bobby Thompson tribute act Tony Washington will be joined by TV and film funnyman Ricky Tomlinson when the star heads to Newcastle.

The Royle Family star will be the main attraction at the city’s Coxlodge Social Club in Gosforth on April 27.

And the 77-year-old will be joined on stage by the Gateshead-born singer for his trip to the North East.

Ahead of the visit, Ricky said: “Bobby Thompson will always be an absolute working class hero in the North East, and I was knocked out when I worked with Tony recently and I immediately added him to my shows.

“Bobby was packing the social clubs to the rafters back in the 70s. Tony is a great talent and one of the top acts filling clubs today.

“His tribute to ‘The Little Waster’ is very much an updated version of Bobby’s act with much of it applicable to today’s world, and I just keep hearing great things about him.

“Tony has a cracking voice and will add much variety to the show with his songs and Bobby’s humour.

“People love variety and we will have lots of laughs and music when we get to the stage in the North East next month.”

Bobby Thompson , renowned stand-up comedian, actor and entertainer from Penshaw, Sunderland, was famous for his accent, s e l f - d e p r e c a t i n g humour and mastery of the mother-in-law joke.

He was affectionately known as The Little Waster due to his short stature.

Tribute act Tony is already counting down to the date and says it will be a ‘real thrill’ to work with Ricky.

He added: “Ricky is a big fan of Bobby Thompson’s – I love bringing The Little Waster’s act bang up to date with lots of current material.

“Bobby, just like Ricky, is a true giant of entertainment. On my travels people really enjoy seeing the old Bobby clothes on stage, and reliving his unique style of delivery and cheeky humour.

“I could imagine Ricky and Bobby getting along really well if the ‘Waster’ was still around here with us. They are both loved by the working man and nothing would change their stance and views.”

Hosted by BBC Tees presenter Paul Gough, Ricky will reflect on his career and face questions from the audience on the night. Tickets for ‘An Evening With Ricky Tomlinson’ are priced at £15 and available via Goffy Media by calling 07990588424. TONY WASHINGTON