The comedian Ricky Tomlinson, best known for his role as Jim Royle in the Royle Family, kicks off a string of 2010 dates in March / April under the banner of 'Ricky Tomlinson's Laughter Show'. The six gigs start in Oxford (New Theatre) on March 19th, continuing on to Grimsby (Auditorium - 25th), Sunderland (Empire - 26th), York (Grand Opera House - 31st), Birmingham (Alexandra - April 15th) and finally Liverpool (Southport Theatre - Apr 22nd). Don't bet against a London date or two being announced at some point.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Wednesday 25th November) at 10am.

Tomlinson has veered from plasterer, banjo player and political activist to comedian, actor and, er, political activist, before settling on acting. He landed a part in Brookside, another in Cracker before being cast as crotchety Jim Royle in the popular Royle Family, giving the nation the catchphrase, 'my arse!'. After appearing in the title role as 'Mike Bassett - England Manager' (which had its moments despite being slated), he returned to the comedy circuit with his Laughter Show. These tickets will fly out - no 'my arse' about it.