First 'New Woman Comedian of the Year' winner

Madeleine Brettingham has won the inaugural West End New Woman Comedian of the Year title.

She took the £100 prize after seeing off competition from around 100 other entrants.  

The runners-up were two character acts; Gel Shitty (Judy Harris) and Vanilla Jane (Emma Davies) – who get £70 each – and the audience pick prize went to Philippa Layburn, who receives £50.

Other competitors appearing at the final at the Carpenter's Arms in Central London were  Bonya, Lorra Videv, Marigold Lately, Megan Burns, Nicky Vere Compton, Rosie Wood and Steph Cassin.

Eloise Heath, Hazel Donovan, Salma Lyons also qualified for the final but could not attend.

Dora Flowers, who organised the event with Stacey Lewis, said: ‘Every act that made it to the final was worthy of their place, every heat was packed with talented and hilarious women! Individual and innovative comedy - it was a cracking competition and very tough for everyone involved in the judging.’

All the finalists have also been offered stage time.

Published: 29 Jul 2025