A SUNDERLAND fan is to star in a one-man show dedicated to the Black Cats.

I Left My Heart In Roker Park centres on Kevin Halliday, a lifelong Sunderland supporter who – over the course of an afternoon in the back garden of his home on the site of the former Roker Park – tells the story of his life and how it has been interweaved with the fortunes of his beloved football team.

It stars Paul Dunn, from Grindon, Sunderland, also a lifelong Black Cats follower.

“It’s a play about excitement, heartache, disappointment, satisfaction and jubilation,” Mr Dunn said.

“For Kevin, watching his team and living his life have both provided them all.”

The show was written by North-East playwright Tom Kelly, whose work includes I Heart Kent Walton, The Girl and the Unicorn and Tom & Catherine, as well as several volumes of poetry.

Mr Dunn said: “Tom Kelly has updated his original 1997 script.

“It’s a funny, poignant and ultimately heart-warming play that tells the story of one man’s journey through his life and loves.”

Reflecting on the new football season and SAFC’s prospects under coach Gus Poyet, Mr Dunn said: “You just never know what’s going to happen with Sunderland, which is part of the show.

“There’s always going to be ups and downs. We’re a yo-yo club. But there’s always next season. At least it keeps us interested.”

The show has already gone down well with audiences and so extra nights have been added to the short North-East tour.

It will be performed at The Customs House in South Shields on September 19, 20 and 21, the Gala Theatre in Durham on September 23, 26, 27 and 28 and Washington Arts Centre on September 25.

Tickets cost £8.50 to £12, with concessions available. For more information, visit crankedanvil.co.uk