FORMER Rab C. Nesbitt star Tony Roper has joined the cast of River City - despite never watching soaps.

The actor, who played Jamesie Cotter, earlier turned down an offer to join Family Affairs.

He said: "Apart from Coronation Street in the 1960s soaps have never been my thing.

"I prefer watching sport or documentaries. But when the River City part came up I thought Why not?', and I'm glad I've done it. It's been great fun."

Tony's appearance is part of a storyline that will set River City fans on the edge of their recliners.

A River City spokeswoman said: "Tony plays John, the gardener at the swish country hotel where Shona and Raymond run off to get married.

"John ends up being a witness at the wedding. But we can't say how he comes to be invited - or what the impact of his appearance turns out to be."

Tony, 65, loved his time filming at top hotel Marr Hall in Bishopton.

He said: "The crew and the rest of the cast work very hard.

"And although I'm not one for soaps on telly, I've got a lot of respect for the people who make them."

Tony's stint on River City will be dramatic, but shortlived. However, there is a chance his character could come back for a longer period.

He said: "The River City people are in talks to see if the character of John could be developed. We'll see how things pan out."

With former Rab C. Nesbitt star Barbara Rafferty also in the cast, as Shirley, could there be a reunion for Jamesie and Ella, one of the best comedy screen partnership?

Tony said:"You never know."