Romantic end to 24hr show

Mark Watson has completed his record-breaking 24-hour stand-up routine - by proposing to his girlfriend.

Emily Howes accepted in from of the audience of 160 at the Edinburgh Fringe, as the show drew to its conclusion just before midnight.

Watson, 24, said he felt "pretty dazed and very happy" after completing his challenge.

Guests including Adam Hills, Stewart Lee, Dara O'Briain and Jenny Eclair popped helped out during the appropriately named Mark Watson's Overambitious 24-Hour Show.

Hills told the BBC: "It's the best thing I've ever seen at the Fringe. It created its own little universe, sub-plots and stories.

"The fact that he thought of it, saw it all the way through, and created such a feeling in the room is either a testament to comedy genius or proof that the Stockholm Syndrome does exist amongst hostages."

A dozen fans stayed with Watson throughout the marathon attempt at Cowgate Central, including his new fiancé.

They saw a blind date, a debate on the existence of God and readings from his debut novel, Bullet Points.

Befor his attempt, Watson said: “For some time I have felt the spirit of Edinburgh has wasted away. It has become very commercial and competitive and a bit like a career treadmill.”

Published: 24 Aug 2004