EAGLE eyed shoppers along Heswall High street might be forgiven for thinking they had a star in their midst this week.

Sam Ryder, who came second in last year's Eurovision contest, appears to have been out and about in the town, being snapped at Linghams Bookshop, Henry & Co and Homebird.

But the singer's apparent spell of retail therapy was all in a good cause - highlighting the forthcoming Eurovision Party Night at Heswall Hall.

Chester and District Standard: Sam Ryder searches for inspiration in a Heswall bookshop Sam Ryder searches for inspiration in a Heswall bookshop (Image: Heswall Hall)

"Sam makes a fantastic cardboard cut-out," said Hall manager Sarah Douglas.

"We thought it would be great to photograph him in Heswall. It was a bit of fun and at the same time highlighted the fact we're holding a big Eurovision night on May 13."

Sarah said the response has been brilliant.

"Sam really raised a smile - I've had people thinking it was really him! It's certainly got people talking," she said.

Chester and District Standard: Sam Ryder has a bite to eat in Heswall Sam Ryder has a bite to eat in Heswall (Image: Heswall Hall)

If you missed Sam he'll also be making a (cardboard) guest appearance at Heswall Hall's Eurovision Party Night. Tickets are £25 and include a live stream of the event on our huge screen, Euro themed grazing platters and a glass of fizz.

For more information go to: heswallhall.co.uk

Heswall Hall is a charity and a Community Trust managed by a group of volunteer trustees. It is a community hub for the local area.