Catch the BBC Radio New Comedy Award 2013 at The Comedy Store

Charged with finding the best up-and-coming stand-up talent around the country, BBC Radio’s New Comedy Award stops by Manchester with two heats at Deansgate Locks’ Comedy Store next week. MCed by Justin Moorhouse (pictured) on Tuesday 3 and Jo Enright on Wednesday 4 September, both nights will feature guest judge John Thomson. Winners from four regional heats will go on to perform at semi-finals in Birmingham and London – both broadcast on BBC Radio 2 in November – with final then taking place in December at London’s Comedy Store, hosted by Patrick Kielty. The overall winner of the award will receive £1,000 plus development advice and guidance from the BBC Comedy Department and the chance for a commission from BBC Radio Comedy. The award’s previous finalists including comedy royalty Alan Carr, Peter Kay, Sarah Millican and Russell Howard.

Tue 3 & Wed 4 Sep, The Comedy Store, Arches 3 & 4, Deansgate Locks Whitworth Street West, M1 5LH, Tel: 0161 839 9595, 8pm, £7, www.bbc.co.uk/newcomedyaward