It's Pop Idol - for comics

ITV is hoping to cash in on the success of Pop Idol with a new talent hunt for comedians.

Like the earlier ratings hit, winners of the show will be decided by an audience phone-in.

Around 140 acts will be filmed in pubs and clubs across six ITV regions - LWT, Anglia, Meridian, Tyne Tees, Granada and Yorkshire - for Stand Up Britain.

The winner of the hour-long final will take home £5,000 and could land their own show.

Producer Sean Miller said: "Stand Up Britain is a great chance to find new talent from all over the UK - and to make 2002 a year to remember for the winner."

Co-producer Kirsty Smith added: "We're hoping the standard of entries will be high, but of course, whittling out the good from the bad should also prove to be entertaining viewing.

"Who knows? The next Lee Evans, Harry Hill, or Johnny Vegas could be discovered."

And Ralph Jones, managing editor of production house The Lab, says the project will give comedians the chance to showcase their talents to a wider audience.

"It's difficult for comedians to get their foot in the door and make that giant leap from performing down their local pub to appearing on television. This contest gives them that opportunity."

To apply, email StandUpBritain@granadamedia.com or call Carla on 020 7633 2503

Published: 15 Mar 2002