Show launches on July 19

ITV1 is to screen the comedy talent hunt Take The Mike from July.

The first show will go out at 12.30am on Friday July 19.

And executives are said to be so impressed with the shows that a third series is very likely next year.

The show was given a complete revamp after the first series proved a disappointment to many of the fledgling comics taking part.

Supergirly were replaced as comperes by Paul Tonkinson, pictured, and the recording location switched from a barren room with a tatty backdrop to an intimate cellar bar with a proper set.

Chortle's Steve Bennett, who has seen some of the finished programmes, said: "It's a world apart from the first series.

"It looks a lot more professional, and the all the contestants are all shown in a good light - so they can't blame the producers if they don't come across very well!

"Tonkinson moves the show along nicely - and there is some great advice in the workshop sessions - especially from Brendon Burns, whose no-bullshit attitude riled a couple of those taking part, but he was giving them valuable pointers, and it made for good telly."

Take The Mike is one of two late-night comedy shows commissioned by ITV1 this summer. The other, Stand-Up Britain will only be shown in some regions.

Published: 20 May 2002