ELEBRITY status and his long-standing support for the Red Cross charity earned Sam Allardyce a date with royalty yesterday.

The Wanderers' boss met the Queen at the charity's Salford Quays offices during her visit to the North-west and spoke of his delight at the honour and his pride in being associated with the charity.

"It was a wonderful occasion," the Wanderers' boss said. "I got to shake hands with the Queen which was a great honour. I was delighted she visited the Red Cross because I've been a supporter for more than 20 years. They do a fantastic job."