AN entertainment venue is hosting its first ever comedy night.

The Forum in Northallerton will be playing host to a number of stand-up comedians on Friday, March 8, with its Hilarity Bites night.

Running of the venue was taken over from Hambleton District Council in August last year, by a group of local residents.

The council awarded it a start-up grant of £70,000 and £22,000 to invest in cinema equipment and it has been working hard ever since to develop a varied programme of entertainment and attract new members.

Topping the bill on the comedy night will be Silky, based in Yorkshire, who counts John Bishop and Tim Minchin amongst his fans. Alfie Moore, a serving sergeant in Humberside Police Force, will also appear. He has supported top comedians such as Sarah Millican on national tours.

Neil Jollie said: “We’re keen to make the night a success so that we can hopefully help The Forum succeed in attracting new audience members now that it’s being run on a charitable basis.”

Tickets for the show are £8 if bought in advance, or £10 on the door. Doors open 7:30pm and the show starting 8pm. For more information, or to buy tickets, visit the Hilarity Bites website at: www.hilaritybites.co.uk or contact The Forum on 01609-776230.