BGT winner Lee Ridley “honoured” to headline North East Comedy Festival

The region's very own Britain’s Got Talent winner Lee Ridley, better known as ‘Lost Voice Guy’ will headline Consett Comedy Festival later this month at Consett Rugby Club.

The comedian, who won the famous series in 2018, will join headliners Clinton Baptiste and Angelos Epithemiou for the festival taking place from April 27 to April 30.

Read more: Consett Comedy Festival 2023: What to expect this year

Ahead of his appearance, Lee chatted to The Northern Echo about his journey to success, as he admits there’s ‘nothing better’ than playing to his home crowd.

He said: “It’s always great to come home and perform in the North East because you just know that people will be really up for a good night.

“The people of the North East have been very supportive of me since my BGT journey as well, so it’s going to be nice to be able to show them how much I appreciate all their love and support.”

Lee will headline Consett Comedy Festival in its second year, after it’s huge success in 2022 called for a second round.

Read more: Consett Junior Brass celebrate 50th year & David Jackson with concert

Attendees will also be able to catch Bobby Davro and Mark Simmons, as part of a lineup Lee says he is “honoured” to join.

“The lineup for the festival this year is really good, so I’m honoured to be part of it.

I’m especially looking forward to seeing Scott Bennett, Mark Simmons and Justin Moorhouse. I’d definitely recommend people check them all out.”

Since his win in 2018, Lee has experienced unbridled success, touring the UK on a nationwide tour and writing a book.

“Obviously, I’m a lot richer for a start. But please don’t tell the department of work and pensions…

He added: “One of the best things to happen since I won is that people engage with me more than they would have in the past.

“For the first time, they seem comfortable talking to a disabled person. I’m used to being stared at for negative reasons, so it’s nice to be stared at for positive reasons for a change.”

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For those attending, Lee has promised a “cheeky” and “mischievous” set typical of his previous Lost Voice Guy shows.

“During my Britain’s got talent experience, the general public were so supportive of me and everyone has been really lovely since, so it’s going to be nice to give something back to them.

“I’m excited to meet everyone, and I hope they enjoy the show.”