Three British comedy films are to be developed thanks to a grant from The Film Council.

It's thought to be the first time that the funding body has invested in a slate of comedies.

The money goes to CHX Productions, which has a track record of making TV comedies, including Vic Reeves' Big Night Out.

Writers on the projects include The Office's Mackenzie Crook (pictured), and Ant Hines, who has written for Dennis Pennis and Ali G.

CHX managing director Alan Marek told trade magazine Broadcast: "CHX is renowned for its work with young British comedy talent in TV, and it makes perfect sense for us to bring our experience to the big screen."

British company Winchester Films is also developing a slate of comedies, under the stewardship of David Baddiel.