A Valley man who raises money for charities by impersonating the comedy actor Ricky Tomlinson is Ynys Môn MP
Virginia Crosbie’s September Hidden Hero.
Will Williams uses his resemblance to the Liverpool-born Royle Family star to help children with special needs charities.
The former guest house owner also plays Santa Claus and helps Holyhead Santa Richard Burnell with regular
appearances at local schools, playgroups and events.
And, despite failing eyesight, he also refurbishes sports trophies and supplies them to local clubs and organisations for
a minimal cost.
“I was told that I looked very like Ricky Tomlinson, who plays Jim Royle in the show, and so I used the resemblance to
help fund raise for various causes,” said Will.
“I absolutely love doing charity work as a lookalike and help wherever and whenever I can. My other love is appearing
as Santa Claus.
“It's also immensely satisfying being able to supply clubs and organisations with cups, trophies, medals and plaques
and it's all down to the kindness of the donors of the trophies.”
He added: “Being honoured as a Hidden Hero is hard to believe when you're a 19 stone, senior lookalike for someone
famous but if I can help any charity, I will always do my best!”
Virginia said: “Many congratulations to Will for becoming my September Hidden Hero. He has worked tirelessly on the
island now for many years raising money, by being Father Christmas and Jim Royle and much more.
“Without people like Will we would be a poorer place as an island and lose out on the drive and goodwill of those like
our own star impersonator.”
