Budding young Hartlepool actor meets his idol

Daniel Cooper, 12, was lucky enough to spend time with Ricky Tomlinson during the legend’s recent visit to the region.

Daniel, first met Ricky with his parents, Shirley and Stephen, when Ricky appeared alongside Hartlepool radio presenter Paul “Goffy” Gough in September 2015.

The family were recently guests of Ricky for his Hartlepool show last month in the Belle Vue Club, and again when Ricky and Goffy appeared at show in Newcastle on their North tour.

Since his first meeting with Ricky, Daniel has gone on to perform in the West End, playing Chip Buddy in the production of Lazy Ace at her Majesty’s Theatre in London.

Earlier this spring he also appeared on the CBBC TV show Remotely Funny and was recently awarded a scholarship in music at Hartlepool’s Mick Donnelly Music Academy.

The rising star also attends the Pauline Quirke Academy in Stockton, where he has received awards and accolades for his work.

Daniel said: “It was fantastic to meet Ricky with my mam and dad at both Hartlepool and then in Newcastle to see him live on stage.

“At both events here in the North East we were made special guests and I was able to spend some one-to-one time with him.

“He was encouraging me to look for an agent, and constantly look for opportunities to work on stage. Ricky is just like he is on the telly or on the big screen – it was a dream come true to be in his company.”

The Royle Family, Brookside, Cracker and Mike Bassett star, said: “It was lovely to see Daniel with his parents Shirley and Stephen again when we visited the North East.” Ricky, went on to say: “Youngsters like Daniel are our next generation and if I can help and encourage them then I will.”