Funny Women

The Funny Women Awards were launched in 2003 to seek out the best new female comedy talent. Entrants must have been performing for less than three years. Heats run nationwide during May and June and 20 acts take part in two semi finals, north and south. Ten acts are selected to go through to the final at The Comedy Store, London. The winner receives £2,000 and two runners up each receive £500.

The awards were founded by producer Lynne Parker, and are the only competitive forum just for female comics. They also raise money for women's charities.

For more information visit www.funnywomen.com

Previous winners and finalists:

2007: Andi Osho
Runners up: Joanne Lau,Sharon Mannion
Finalists: Emily Haworth-Booth, Isma Almas, Joanne Lau, Katy Schutte, Nat Luurtsema, Katie Mulgrew, Missman, Victoria Cook

2006: Suzy Bennett
Runners up: Diane Morgan, (2nd) Christina Martin (3rd)
Finalists: Susan Calman, Holly Walsh, Martine Pepper, Liz Carr, Maggie Gordon-Walker, Sonya Kelly, Rosie Wilby

2005: Debra-Jane Appelby
Runners up: Sarah Millican, Ruth Bratt
Finalists: Wendy Wason, Steph Baker, Julie Jepson, Jude Mahon, Emma Fryer, Becky Love, Helen Keen

2004: Zoë Lyons
Runners up: Anna Crilly, Janice Phayre
Finalists: Bridget Christie, Roisin Conaty, Lindzi Germain, Susan Hanks, Sarah Ledger, Live! At The Mausoleum, Millie & Tillie

2003: Sarah Adams as Jade the Folk Singer
Runners up: Anna Keirle, Ria Lina
Highly recommended: Kerry Godliman
Finalists: Karen Bayley, Jo Jo Sutherland, Katy Wix, Helen Kane, Debs Gatenby, Brandy Borr