The man known to millions as Jim Royle has had his famous features captured on canvas by local artist Alan Hydes.

Actor Ricky Tomlinson spoke to the Telegraph & Argus as he polished off his lunch at The Queen's pub in Apperley Bridge.

Scouser Ricky was in the district yesterday to have his famously craggy features caught for posterity by artist Alan Hydes.

Alan's oil painting of the leader of the Royle clan is due to feature in a spring episode of his successful In The Frame television show.

The 60-year-old enjoyed his sitting - but what would telly addict Jim have made of the experience?

"He'd go bonkers," said Ricky, immediately switching into character. "Sitting still for hours for a portrait. It's a waste of good paint!"

Alan, who took the wisecracks about his craft in good spirit, had contacted Ricky a few months ago.

He explained: "I'm always looking for somebody with a really interesting face to paint, and I think Ricky Tomlinson has the best face imaginable, with a real load of character.

"It's a big honour to paint him because he's one of the most popular actors in Britain."