150 comics in Guinness attempt

More than 150 comics, including Johnny Vegas, will tonight attempt to get into the Guinness Book Of Records for the biggest ever comedy bill.

Each act in the Manchester Comedy Festival event will be given just two minutes, meaning the show will run for more than five hours.

Des Sharples, who organised the event with Tony Baloney, Joey Longshaw and Jason Cooke, said: "If you go to the loo you're going to miss two acts."

The record bid follows a successful event in 2001, in which 102 performers appeared on the same bill. The plan had been to attract 200 comics, but Guinness insisted that each perform a minimum set.

Most of the comedians taking part tonight are newer acts, but more established circuit names such as Gavin Webster, Toby Foster and Susan Murray are also expected on the bill.

Headliner Vegas is the only comic not to be bound by the strict two-minute rule.

Stand-Up 150 takes place at Manchester's Dancehouse Theatre from 7pm tonight with tickets, pricd £7 (£5 concessions) available from the box office on 0161 237 9753.

The event will also be raising money for the Francis House children's hospice.

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Published: 31 Oct 2003