Anthony takes new act crown

Graham Anthony has been named Hackney Empire new act of the year.

Vicky Frango took second place with ventriloquist Nina Conti, daughter of veteran actor Tom, coming in third.

Patrick Monahan and Henrik Elmer were named runners-up by the industry judges.

Anthony was one of two deaf comedians in the final, the other being Steve Day. Others to make it through to last night's finale were Graeme Casey, Kevin Dewsbury, Big Dave Dynamite, Danny James, Avril Taylor and Verity Welch.

Winners of the prestigious contest over the past 13 years have included Father Ted's Ardal O'Hanlon, Big Breakfast host Paul Tonkinson and the Fast Show's Simon Day. Alan Davies and Eddie Izzard could only manage runner-up positions.

Published: 3 Mar 2002