Addison is bookies' tip for the Perrier

Chris Addison is the bookmakers’ favourite to win the Perrier award.

Bookmakers William Hill have opened betting on the comedy award for the first time, and have Addison's show Atomicity at 7-4 favourite

Jeremy Lion, the drunken children’s entertainer created by The Consultants’ Justin Edwards, is second favourite, at 3-1, closely followed by newcomer Jason Manford at 7-2.

William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams said: “Chris Addison was many commentators' favourite to win the Perrier Award last year and he has an excellent chance to win this year.

“One to watch out for is Jason Manford, who has had a very strong late run gaining similar reviews to last year's successful winner Jackson's Way.”

Laura Salon's Kopfrapers Syndrome and Dutch Elm Conservatoire complete the shortlist for the £7,500 prize, with odds of 4-1.

Click here to see the latest odds.

The shortlist for the best newcomer, which William Hill is not taking bets on, is

• Charlie Pickering- Betterman
• Mark Watson:50 Years Before Death
• Rhod Gilbert's 1984
• Tim Minchin: Darkside
• Toulson and Harvey

Published: 1 Aug 2005