Karl Porter also does the double

Phil Ellis was a double winner at this year’s North West Comedy Awards, handed out at Manchester’s Frog & Bucket comedy club last night.

He was named  best act, while  Phil Ellis's Excellent Comedy Show was named best solo show – although he is accompanied by musicians on stage

Writing on social media, Ellis said: "Genuinely surprised. So much so, I hadn't taken my coat off. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I love the North West Comedy scene & it's only getting bigger & stronger. Very proud to be a little part of it.’

Karl Porter also did the double, winning breakthrough act and the social media award. On Facebook, he posted: ‘Did my 1st ever gig at the Frog & Bucket and to win there last night was pretty special. Thank you to the industry and everyone who voted.’

Josh Jones was named best TV and radio act for appearances  on shows including Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled and The Stand-Up Sketch Show.

Hayley Ellis won best MC for the second year running, saying online: ‘ Only thing I've held onto longer is my crippling depression.’

Janice Connolly – who performs as Barbara Nice – wont he comedy legend award and posted that she was ‘thrilled’ with the accolade.

Jenny Hart was named best alternative act, Adam Rowe and Dan Nightingale’s Have A Word was named best podcast, and Rob Riley was named best promoter. 

The Frog & Bucket won best comedy club with its Beat The Frog gong show named best open mic night. XS Malarkey, also in Manchester, took the prize for best independent comedy club,

Published: 18 Jan 2024