Big fundraiser to close festival

Jo Brand is to headline a star-studded charity gala to bring the London Comedy Festival to a close.

She will top a bill that also includes Jenny Eclair, Al Murray, Hattie Hayridge, Men In Coats, Ian Stone, Gina Yashere and Richard Morton.

The event has been organised to benefit Breakthrough Breast Cancer by John Moloney, who will compere the event.

He explained that the cause was close to him, saying: "Cancer touches all our families. My sister has been - and still is ­ very ill with this debilitating illness.

"Luckily I have been able to ask friends and colleagues to give their time for free. These people were prepared - as most comics are - to give up their time to help a good cause."

Breakthrough To Comedy takes place at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on Sunday May 26.

Published: 17 Apr 2002