Alan's back to host charity fundraiser

Steve Coogan is to revive Alan Partridge for a charity fundraiser.

He retired the character a year ago, saying "It's time for me to do something new, before everyone thinks I actually am Alan Partridge.''

But now he has agreed to bring him back for a Cream Of British Comedy show at the Royal Albert Hall.

The event is part of a week of gigs raising funds for Roger Daltrey's Teenage Cancer Trust, which will also feature performances from The Who, Tom Jones and Jooles Holland.

Coogan told the Daily Telegraph: "Daltrey knows a lot of people in the world of rock and I know a lot in the world of comedy.

"Alan will, of course, be hosting the evening, as he desperately needs the publicity."

Charity chairman Adrian Whiteson said: "Each day in the UK, six teenagers are diagnosed with cancer. Funds raised from the previous Teenage Cancer Trust Royal Albert Hall shows have gone towards funding and building eight units specifically for these teenagers."

The comedy show will take place on Wednesday March 31, and tickets, priced £17.50 to £80, are available from the box office on 020 7589 8212.

Details of the other comics on the bill have not been revealed.

Coogan previously revived Partridge for another fundraiser, Drugathon 2, in the West End in September.

Published: 23 Jan 2004