Superb job, comedy fest sponsors tell organisers

THE popular Southport Comedy Festival – back for its seventh year – has been extended to 18 days meaning it will run from October 5 until October 22.

Organisers of the festival, supported by Hodge Halsall Solicitors, have predicted that thousands of people will attend.

It is early days in the scheduling, but big name comedians already signed up for the festival this year include Jason Manford, whose shows have already sold out, and “sarcasm in a suit” Paul Sinha, from The Chase.

Festival organiser Brendan Riley said: “Each year gets bigger and it is great to see so many people come to the shows.

“This year we have extended the festival to 18 days, and we are expecting thousands to come and engage in the festival.”

Another thing organisers are particularly happy about is their ability to retain sponsorships.

For example, Hodge Halsall Solicitors will be one of several corporate sponsors for the annual event, and this will be their second year sponsoring the show.

Derek Alman, from Hodge Halsall, said: “Hodge Halsall is delighted to once again support the Southport Comedy Festival.

“This is the second year of our involvement. After the success of last year we were only too keen to be involved again believing as we do in the importance of local business backing initiatives that bring people into the town. Bren & Val are doing a superb job in developing this event.”

Acts performing at this year’s festival include, Rich Hall, Jo Caulfield, Patrick Monahan, Gary Delaney, Tom Binns, Jason Byrne and Robin Ince to name a few.

With lots of shows and acts already lined up, and more announcements to be made, visit www. southportcomedyfestival. com for more information.