The Fed’s Laughter Factor returned for the third time to Manchester’s legendary Comedy Store, attracting 350 people to its Deansgate Locks venue, to witness the inauguration of a brand new band of comics.
Seven budding comedians – Daniel Berke, Matthew Corker, David Mintz, David Mort, Edward Moss, David Ross and Ian Stern – having completed a 10-week stand-up comedy course with trainer, Ashley Boroda, recently took to the stage.
Joining them to perform comeback routines were the 2014 winner, Marilyn Berg and 2013’s champion, Ian Johnson with former tabloid journalist turned comedy writer and performer, John Warburton, compering the evening free of charge. Judges on the night were comedians Danny Sutcliffe, Rachel Fairburn and Mike Newall.
The Fed’s ‘Magnificent 7’ bravely clutched their mics and despite some obvious nerves, elicited many waves of appreciative laughter.
The judges’ unanimous choice as the winner was Matt Corker, technical director of NASH Mechanical Seal Services in Bolton.
Matt described the dry mouth and rapid heartbeat which kicked in as he waited to go on stage, but said his nerves “melted away the moment I opened my mouth with ‘Hello Wembley’ and I just enjoyed myself”.
According to The Fed’s fundraising manager Rochelle Broman the event overall should net in excess of its £9,000 target.
She said: “I can’t thank the comedians enough for taking part. People had a really fantastic time, and it was a great success in terms of raising money to support our services.”
If you would like to get involved in future fundraising events for The Fed, contact Rochelle or fundraising assistant, Zoe Slotwiner, on 0161 772 4800.