Globe columnist Peter Grant talks to soccer-mad Stan Boardman about being a double booking that made him see Red.

"Thanks a lot Kloppy," is the message from life-long Reds fan Stan Boardman.

The Wirral-based comedian is playing the New Brighton Pavilion next Saturday, May 26 – the same night that his beloved Liverpool FC take on Real Madrid in Kiev in the Champions League Final.

Stan says he couldn't believe it when he heard the news because he had booked his solo show back in December.

And even though he had a ticket for the final he says he never for one moment thought about letting his own fans down.

He told me: "I am gutted that I will miss being in Kiev but my show will go on and I have had a special jacket made to wear the night to let Jurgen and the lads know I am supporting them back at home."

His friend Betty Nelson from Bridesworld in Wallasey made him a special coat for his gig.

"I started out as a Redcoat so I've gone full circle," says Stan who will be celebrating his life and career at the Pavilion.

"I will be doing a question and answer segment and I will be showing clips from my show biz life n a big screen.

"I will also be paying tribute to absent friends Sir Ken Dodd and Jim Bowen.

"And sharing memories of my great mate Gerry Marsden who is retiring."

The 80-year-old Huyton-born star says he has no plans to retire, adding "I must now be the oldest living Scouse comedian on the circuit." 

Stan says that he now invites all Tranmere Rovers and Everton fans to come along on the night to avoid the outcome of the Champions League Final.

The comic says he will be having some special requests on the night.

"I want the audience to switch off their mobiles and I don't want them shouting out the score.

"They will get a red card from me.

"I can deal with hecklers - but please no score updates."

Stan says that after the match he will be 'tasting' Kiev for real when he watches the video highlights after his show.

"I've ordered Chicken Kiev and I will enjoy a first and second leg.

"I won't be Russian it ...

"I just hope we do a double - that we have a premier night of entertainment in New Brighton and that Liverpool win their sixth European Cup."

Tickets for an Audience with Stan Boardman at Floral Pavilion on May 26 are from the box office on 0151 666 0000.