Ricky previews in the West End

Ricky Gervais is to appear in the West End all next week.

The Office star is previewing his new stand-up show Politics at the Garrick Theatre before embarking on a short national tour.

Tickets for the London shows cost £20 each, with proceeds going to MacMillan Cancer Relief.

A spokesman said: "As Ricky does not want to profit from rehearsing what is essentially his trade. With that in mind, Ricky would like to appeal to any opportunists not to put tickets on ebay."

However, it seems his plea has fallen on deaf ears ­ front-row seats are currently going for £65 on the Internet auction site.

To buy tickets for the shows from March 8 to 12 legitimately, call 0870 890 1104.

Tickets are still available for the tour in Birmingham and Oxford. Click here to buy.

Published: 5 Mar 2004