ASPIRING stand-up comedians from the North-East are competing against contenders from around the country in a new ITV talent show.

Viewers will vote for their favourite acts from regional heats to compete in a live national final.

This is the first time that regional TV stations have collaborated on a project of this kind.

More than 140 up-and-coming comedians will be showcased in the six-part series.

The winner takes the title of the country's top new comedy performer, as well as a £5,000 prize and trophy.

Tyne Tees producer Sue Drummund said: "It's a great chance for acts from the region to make their mark. We can give them the chance to make that giant leap from performing in a local pub to appearing on screen."

The first programme is being screened on Tyne Tees Television this Friday, at 11.30pm.

Representing the North-East in the series are:

Programme one: Kate Fox, from Tynemouth; Matthew Reed, from Fence Houses, County Durham, Ron Teichman, from Medomsley, County Durham; Scott Tyrell, from Fenham, Newcastle.

Programme two: Patrick Monahan, from Stokesley, North Yorkshire; Avery Philips, from Guisborough, east Cleveland; Nev Larkin, from Forest Hall, Newcastle; Sandy Gilroy, from Richmond, North Yorkshire.

Programme three: Seymour Mace, from Jarrow, Tyneside; Kenny Riley, from Ebchester, County Durham,; Ben Traynor, from Jarrow; Steve Drayton, from Heaton, Newcastle.

Programme four: Brendan Healy, from Haydon Bridge, Northumberland; Warren Speed, from Newcastle; John Cooper, from Sunderland; Gem Stone, from Burnmoor, County Durham.

Programme five: Sue Sweeney, from Durham; Neil McGee, from Great Lumley, County Durham; Paul Morris, from Gateshead; Howka Charvas, from Newcastle.

Programme six: Dan Nightingale, from Newcastle; Barry Dodds, from Gateshead; Bobby Dresser, from Lanchester, County Durham.