THE deeds of Everton’s first Wembley captain Dixie Dean made a big impression in royal circles .... as the Lord Mayor of Liverpool found out at first hand.

Liverpool’s first citizen was asked to sit next to the Duchess of York, Wembley’s guest of honour, to help her identify the Everton and Manchester City players at the 1933 FA Cup Final.

When the great William Ralph set off on an attack the Lord Mayor turned to the future Queen Mother in the Royal Box and said: “Ma’am, the No 9 is Dixie Dean.”

To which the Duchess replied: “Even I know who Dean is.”

The events that day are featured in The Dixie Dean Story which comes to Southport Theatre for one night only on Thursday, April 19 with Wirral actor Steve Hazlehurst resuming his acclaimed title role and writer John Keith narrating.

Steve’s performance has won fulsome praise, including that of former Everton star Duncan McKenzie who declared: “The way Steve controls a ball on stage as he delivers his lines is just amazing. Every football fan, regardless of allegiance, should see this show.”

Tickets (£16, with £13 concessions) from 01704 500036, in person from Southport Theatre or at: www.atgtickets.com/southporttheatre