Review by Steve Bennett

Parsons' distinctively amusing character and his fine absurdist observations are not best served by this somewhat awkward show.

The clumsy premise that Parsons is indeed the pest exterminator of the title stifles the gags and hinders the natural flow, rather than helping them.

Much of the monologue supposedly happens in his lonely flat, as he chats away to his pet goldfish, but adding that intermediary serves only to damage the intimacy and one-to-one contact that stand-up thrives on.

The material is of a consistently good standard, as Parsons' hapless and bemused persona ponders enjoyably ridiculous and off-beat topics - and that will come as no surprise to anyone who has seen this fine comic on the comedy circuit.

A couple of the better gags also feature in the Parsons and Naylor show Spin. It's no big deal, as only an idiot, a stalker or a critic is likely see both. But enjoyable though the solo show is, the double act has a clear edge.

Local Borough Pest Exterminator is a prime example of the need to fashion an Edinburgh show subtracting from, rather than adding to, an already strong act.

Review date: 1 Jan 2001
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett