Funny Women finalists announced

The finalists of a nationwide hunt for the funniest new female comedian have been announced.

The ten will now compete for the Babycham Funny Women Comedy Awards title at the London Comedy Store on Monday.

Judges for the final include Smack The Pony's Doon Mackichan and Chortle editor Steve Bennett.

The finalists are:

• Sarah Davies as Jade The Folk Singer from London
• Ria Lina from London
• Anna Kierle from Cornwall
• Karen Bayey from Birmingham
• Kerry Godliman from London
• Kirsty Moss from Falkirk, Scotland
• Katy Wix from Cardiff
• Helen Kane as Marilyn Monroe from London
• Debs Gatenby from Manchester
• Brandi Borr from London

A competition spokesman said of the heats: "The judges have been overwhelmed by the sheer variety and high standard of all the competitors.

"Each and every showcase has been given a warm response from a mixed crowd and the competitors have been supported all the way through from beginning to end."

The other judges at the final will be Mel Brodie, Editor of M Celebs, Stephanie Merritt from the Observer and comedy agent Hannah Chambers.

Jo Caulfield (pictured) will host the night, with Jo Enright performing a set. The show will be filmed by Living TV.

For tickets, priced £10, click here.

Published: 5 Jul 2003