After 24hrs, the results are still close

However, in many of the categories, the nominees are separated by only a small handful of votes.

The shortlists were drawn up by a panel of comedy industry insiders, and Chortle readers have until February 6 to have their say. The winners will be announced at a party in central London on February 25.

Best newcomer

Nat Luurtsema
Greg McHugh
Holly Walsh
Jack Whitehall

Breakthrough act

Tom Basden
Lloyd Langford
Jon Richardson
Terry Saunders

Best compere

Stephen K Amos
Jarred Christmas
Greg Davies
Stephen Grant

Best headliner

Rhod Gilbert
Jim Jeffries
Michael McIntrye
Glenn Wool

Sketch, variety or character act

Fat Tongue
Lee Fenwick as Mick Sergeant
Pappy's Fun Club
Ugly Kid

Best full show

Tom Basden Won't Say Anything
Stewart Lee: 41st Best Stand-Up
Psister Psycho
Terry Saunders: Missed Connection

Award for innovation

Arthur Smith for ArthurArt
Gently Progressive Behemoth (Edinburgh show)
Laughter In Odd Places
We Need Answers (Edinburgh show)

Best theatre tour

Alan Carr: Tooth Fairy
Al Murray at the London Palladium
Dara O Briain
Frank Skinner

Click here to vote for the best acts

Click here to vote for the best venues

Click here to vote for the comic's comic - but only if you are a comedian

The judging panel was: Steve Bennett (editor, Chortle); Tim Arthur (comedy editor, Time Out); Julia Chamberlain (So You Think You're Funny); Bruce Dessau (comedy reviewer, London Evening Standard); Martyne Green (Underbelly Promotions); Sarah Mahoney (Baby Cow); Ed Morrish (comedy producer, BBC Radio); Claire Nightingale (PBJ Management)

Published: 24 Jan 2008