Comedy festival for mental health

A new comedy festival has been set up, with the aim of promoting mental health issues.

Off the Wall, to be held in Exeter for a week from October 6, is being backed by the charity Mind.

And as well as the usual comedy gigs, events will take place in prisons and hospitals, where mental health problems are rife.

Comedians appearing at the festival include Neil Mullarkey, Ken Campbell, Junior Simpson and alternative cabaret pioneer Tony Allen.

And former BBC entertainment boss Paul Jackson will be there to take part in a discussion about the links between comedy and mental health - and the use of comedy in challenging stigma.

The even coincides with World Mental Health Day, October 10.

For more details, visit the official website.

Published: 12 Sep 2002