GAZETTE & HERALD: NINE professional stand-up comedians including Wil Hodgson, came to Chippenham last week for a night of hilarity in aid of the Tsunami Appeal.

They travelled from all over the country to take part in the event at the Neeld Hall.

Headlining the event was Tim Vine, well known for his quick-fire routine. Nicknamed the Man With the Golden Pun, he received a standing ovation and was brought back on stage to cheers from the crowd.

The other comedians, Russell Howard, Nick Page, James Dowdeswell, Sarah Benetto and Milton Jones were all well received by the capacity crowd.

The evening was compered by Wil Hodgson, the 2004 Perrier Award winner, who is taking a new show to the Edinburgh Festival this year.

Over £2,000 was donated to the Tsunami Appeal and will be used to buy new fishing boats to help Sri Lankans restart their businesses.