It was a homecoming show in Worthing for former Midhurst Primary School pupil Alex Horne.

So there was the odd extra surprise, not least when he accidentally invited an old school friend not seen for 30 years onstage to help set up his giant Rube Goldberg machine.

The creation of the machine took up the full hour of the second half - built from DIY materials, bowling balls and children’s toys in a giant Mousetrap style to sound a small handbell. Setting it running provided the climax of the show.

Horne was the principal builder, telling stories related to the machine as he scuttled around the stage, and seeking out volunteers to help with his grand plan – involving them in ever more ridiculous tasks.

His generally amiable demeanour meant finding volunteers to help in the madness was not difficult – and no-one was left feeling humiliated.

The first half was a warm-up for the construction time – consisting of ten excruciating and sign-posted jokes, three games including audience Twister, a sad story and a song.

Horne’s comedy was warm and slightly absurd - his targets were invariably himself and the ridiculousness of life.

He admitted he was unlikely to find himself on Live At The Apollo – but then Michael McIntyre could never imagine something as brilliant and original as Horne’s final completed machine.

BBC1’s loss was Worthing’s gain.

Four stars