No broadcaster found in time for December's show

This year's British Comedy Awards have been cancelled after Channel 4 dropped the event.

Producers Unique Television have not been able to find a new broadcaster to take the ceremony, now in its 26th year, in time for its usual December broadcast slot.

Previously the 2010 awards were delayed until January the following year after Channel 4 replaced ITV. And the 2007 show was made made, but not broadcast, because of the fallout from the vote-rigging scandal that year.

They also suggest the awards will return celebrating a broader range of comedy than before. Traditionally the show has concentrated almost exclusively on TV hits.

In a statement sent to British Comedy Academy members who vote in the first round of nominations, Unique said: 'As you may have read recently, Channel 4 has decided not to take up their option to broadcast the British Comedy Awards.

'Pending their decision we had been in contractual limbo as we could not professionally progress discussions with any other broadcasters.

'Our aim, going forward, is to make the Awards themselves bigger and better whilst also celebrating and recognising British Comedy more often, more broadly and more deeply than we have at any time before.

'We are keen to engage with a broadcaster who will not only broadcast the awards but also support our development of them and engage fully with the Academy.

'We are delighted to say that discussions with broadcasters are very encouraging and, summer holidays permitting, should be able to update you shortly on our broadcast partner as well as give a sense of our evolving plans to develop the Awards and support British comedy.

'A number of key decisions have already been made, including a return to a central London location for the event, and additions to the format to reflect the changing comedy landscape.

'In the meantime the Academy would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support.'

Published: 20 Oct 2015