New act of the year at the Hackney Empire

Stand-up Ali Woods has been named 'top of the bill' at this year's NATY new act of the year award.

He had previously competed in the BBC New Comedy Award and was runner-up in the Leicester Square New Comedian of the Year in 2017.

Runner-up at the NATYs last night was Blake AJ, with  Adam Coumas placed third.

The competition – which has more of an emphasis on quirky variety acts than most new act hunts – originated at the Hackney Empire, which hosted the final again this year, compered by Jo Brand.

Previous winners include Harry Hill, Gina Yashere, Russell Brand, Lee Nelson and Men In Coats. 

The other finalists were Angelica, Charlie Partridge, Iona Fortune, Jerry Blakewell, Katherine Kenway, Rob Copland, Sheeba Montserrat, Sue Gives A F**k, Trevor Bickles

Published: 16 Feb 2020