Ricky Tomlinson reprises role from Liverpool soap Brookside ahead of Eurovision

Ricky Tomlinson hanging some Ukrainian flags on bunting. Credit: BBC Studios

Actor Ricky Tomlinson has reprised his role as Brookside’s Bobby Grant and can be seen putting up Ukrainian-themed bunting ahead of Eurovision celebrations in Liverpool.

The Royle Family star, 83, has joined a host of famous faces from Liverpool in helping with “some very special BBC filming to demonstrate how this year’s contest is ‘United by Music’,” the broadcaster said.

Ricky Tomlinson is also known for his role as Jim Royle in The Royale Family Credit: PA Images

In new images Tomlinson can be seen hanging Ukrainian flag bunting outside the character’s family home on Brookside Close, using a yellow and blue step ladder

The soap, set in Liverpool, chronicled the lives of characters living in 13 houses on the cul-de-sac before it ended 20 years ago, coming to a close on 4 November 2003.

Soap fans can watch Brookside 40 years after it aired

Conceived by Grange Hill and Hollyoaks creator Sir Philip Redmond, the first episode aired on Channel 4 on 2 November 1982 and at its peak, the show drew in audiences of nine million viewers.

Tomlinson, who starred in the soap between 1982 and 1988, joins Great British Bake Off star Paul Hollywood, Liverpool Women’s footballers Emma Koivisto and Sofie Lundgaard, and Ukrainian Everton player Vitalii Mykolenko as they get ready for Eurovision.

The famous faces are set to welcome the world to Liverpool when the contest kicks off on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with the first semi-final on 9 May.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To know...