Zoe Lyons is bringing the LGBTQ+ comedy nights she runs in her Brighton hometown to an end after 18 years.

Bent Double will ends its long-running monthly  residency at  Komedia next month – although it may return for one-off specials.

Lyons said: ‘Running Bent Double at Komedia for all these years has given me so much joy and it has been total pleasure to work with Komedia over this time.

‘It feels like more than just a comedy show to me, it has been a real privilege to be able to connect with so many people in this city through laughter. I am so grateful to all those that supported the night. Thank you!’

The venue says the other demands on the comic’s time have made it impossible for her to continue with the monthly night.

In a statement, Komedia said: ‘We would like to thank Zoe Lyons who has hosted, booked, and co-created the show from the very beginning, back in October 2005.

‘Zoe has brought so much joy to Komedia and her loyal audience with her fast-paced, warm, and effortless talent. Performing new material month after month, she has earned Bent Double the title of Chortle's Best Comedy Club as well as winning herself the Best Compere award. 

 ‘Zoe Lyons has become a household name and her career now pulls her in exciting new directions, making it very hard to maintain a regular monthly comedy club. Komedia and Zoe are hopeful they can continue to host special edition Bent Double on a semi regular basis, but until then, it’s bon voyage.’

 Acts who have appeared at the night since 2005 include Sara Pascoe, Aisling Bea, Isy Suttie, Hannah Gadsby and Rosie Jones.

The last two remaining dates are this Sunday, May 7, and Sunday June 4.