Pilot for comic Jason

Geordie stand-up Jason Cook is recording a pilot comedy show for Radio 4.

Jason Cook’s Happiness HQ will feature a panel of guests, including fellow North-East comic Chris Ramsey and Jason’s mum Pat, trying to find the happiest people in Britain – and exploring how to have a more contented life.

BBC producer Simon Mayhew-Archer said: ‘Jason has been a fantastic compere for BBC Comedy Presents in Edinburgh and around the country, and the move to radio is a natural progression - and will hopefully be a very successful one.’

Cook – nominated for best compere in this year's Chortle Awards – will be hosting two ‘dry runs’ of the show in Manchester’s Frog and Bucket club on March 2 and 16 before the pilot – which will not be broadcast – is recorded in London.

To be in the audience for the Manchester run-throughs, email happiness@gagreflex.co.uk

• Terry Alderton is piloting a sketch show with independent production house Brassneck TV. The project is speculative, with no broadcaster having commissioned it.

Published: 21 Feb 2011