ITV launches stand-up comedy show

ITV is seeking budding comedians to take part in new reality show 'Show Me The Funny'.

The channel has launched a nationwide search for stand ups, who will get the opportunity to showcase their talents on national TV and compete to become 'Britain's Next Big Stand-Up', winning a grand prize of cash, tour promotion and a DVD release.

Following a group of new comedians hoping to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jonathan Ross, Jimmy Carr and Peter Kay, the funnymen will be sent to perform in front of potentially raucous crowds at hen nights and rugby team parties.

The group will also be followed as they deal with the pressures of writing and coming up with hilarious new material each week.

Producer Freddie Foss-Smith said: "We're looking for unknown and relatively new comedians that might not necessarily have even done a gig before but might just have what it takes.

"You might have played at your local open mic night or have people rolling in the aisles when you give a speech at your yearly conference. Or maybe you write sketches that have never seen the light of day?

"Whatever your experience is, if you would like the opportunity to see if you really do have what it takes to make it as professional stand-up then we want to hear from you."

Filming for the series will take place between April and June.