Dan Antopolski, Jason Byrne, Adam Hills, Daniel Kitson and Garth Marenghi have been named as this year's Perrier nominees.

Judges in the competition, the most prestigious in comedy, will now view all the shows again before making their final decision.

The winner, who will take home £5,000 and unrivalled kudos, is announced at midnight on Saturday.

Award director Nica Burns, said: "It has been an extraordinary year for comedy. Ticket sales have been excellent The more well known names have sold-out and the major comedy producers all report higher ticket sales than last year.

"I am delighted with the high standard across many shows and agree with the audiences - who have voted with their feet - that 2001 has been an excellent year.

"Congratulations to the highly talented comedians on the shortlist and a large round of applause to the many comics who have been giving thousands of punters a terrific night out."

Kitson, who is performing his first full-length show on the fringe, is now ineligible for the Best Newcomer Award. The same situation arose last year with Garth Marenghi.

The Perrier is now in its 21st year. For a list of previous winners, click here.

Published: 22 Aug 2001