Izzard joins Gilded Balloon fundraiser

Eddie Izzard has confirmed he is to take part in next weekend's fundraiser for the Gilded Balloon venue.

However, tickets for the Gutted gig have long since sold out, even without Izzard's name attached

The Gutted benefit is raising cash to help the Edinburgh venue, which was destroyed when a fire ravaged the city last month.

Many of the biggest names in comedy played the club as they rose through the ranks.

Alistair McGowan, Bill Bailey and Jo Brand were already on the bill for the gig at London's Piccadilly Theatre on Sunday.

Gilded Balloon director Karen Koren said: "I think it is lovely that people do know we did a lot of stuff. I can hardly believe that all these people have come forward to do something for me. "

And organiser Mick Bateman said: "The massive support received from performers and others involved in the show is testament to the affection in which the Gilded Balloon is held by many".

Published: 11 Jan 2003