A NORTH-EAST comedy fan who started organising stand-up shows as a hobby has launched a business after bringing funny men John Bishop, Reginald D Hunter and Kevin Bridges to the region.

Three years ago, Darlington’s Neil Jollie began juggling his job in the entertainment industry with his passion for comedy, luring top acts and emerging talent to the North-East.

His success in securing some of the hottest names on the circuit gave him the confidence to launch a business that will run comedy nights across the North.

Hilarity Bites will operate shows in venues throughout County Durham and North Yorkshire, combining some of the most popular national and international acts alongside up-and-coming talent.

His longer-term plans include promoting events across the country and running his own venue in the North-East.

Mr Jollie’s gift for talentspotting has already ensured that North-East comedy fans have enjoyed an early glimpse of performers who have gone on to become household names.

He said: “I’ve been booking comedy events in Darlington since 2007 when we booked a couple of comedy nights, including one featuring a little-known comedian called John Bishop.

“In the past year alone, we have played host to acts such as Sarah Millican, Richard Herring, Jon Richardson, Kevin Bridges and Reginald D. Hunter. We have also hosted three of the past four Edinburgh Comedy Award winners, plus countless more nominees.”

Mr Jollie discourages stag or hen parties or other large groups likely to cause disruption, preferring to tap into the current trend for light comedy seen in TV shows such as Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow.

He said: “Audiences at Hilarity Bites can expect to have a fantastic night of comedy in a friendly, fun atmosphere. There’s always something a little different, but our events will always be exciting and entertaining and people needn’t be scared of being picked on by the acts, as is often the preconception of old-style comedy clubs.”

Darlington, Barnard Castle, Yarm, Saltburn, and Shildon are among the towns that have been initially lined up to host Hilarity Bites events.

The company will host a comedy night in Bishop Auckland Town Hall in aid of Butterwick Hospice on October 27.

The next Hilarity Bites show is at Inside Out, in Darlington, on Sunday, and features TV comedian Rob Rouse, who has appeared on 8 out of 10 Cats and The Friday Night Project.

For more information visit hilaritybites.co.uk