BBC contest nears climax

The BBC has announced the final shortlist in its hunt for new comedy sketch-writers.

More than 1,400 scripts were submitted to the New Comedy award scheme, which were then whittled down to 15 by judges.

These were filmed and posted on the corporation's website, and visitors were invited to vote for their favourite.

Now the last eight have been chosen. These will be screened on BBC Choice in August, alongside the semi-finals of the BBC's stand-up competition.

The Fast Show's Charlie Higson, and Rhys Thomas, the creator of Fun AtThe Funeral Parlour, will select the winner during the Edinburgh Fringe.

The sketches can be seen online here.

Published: 15 Jul 2002