COMEDY lovers are in for a treat this month when they get the chance to see top acts in the region ahead of their Edinburgh Festival performances.

Funny Way to Be Comedy Club has organised three evenings of comedy at The Witham, in Barnard Castle. On July 14, award-winning Welsh comedian Jen Collier, Henry Parker, Lucy Pearman and Steve Bugeja, will mark the club’s 100th show.

Ms Collier will take to the stage at 5pm, followed by Mr Parker at 6.30pm, Ms Pearman at 8pm and Mr Bugeja at 9.30pm.

The shows range from £6 to £7 or alternatively visitors can buy a £20 pass to see all four.

The following Saturday, July 21, will see comedians Lauren Pattison, Adam Hess, and Tom Wrigglesworth take to the stage, again at the same staggered times.

The final show in the series is Gyles Brandreth presenting a full evening of entertainment.

Peter Dixon, of Funny Way To Be Comedy Club, said: “It’s amazing how quickly time has flown since our first show in 2010 which was also an Edinburgh preview. Things have changed a lot in those eight years.”

He added: “We are sure it’s going to be a great evening of laughter.”

For times, tickets and more information visit funnywaytobe.weebly.com, call The Witham, in Barnard Castle, on 01833-631107 or visit thewitham.org.uk