She intended to visit Dave soon, but the legal troubles prevented her from being able to travel for months.
Valerie lived in New York and Dave in Liverpool. In those days, the two were dating, but Valerie got arrested for repeated driving felonies and was prohibited from leaving the country.
The song is about his long-distance relationship with Valerie Star, an American make-up artist. Valerie was written by The Zutons’ leader Dave McCabe.