Over the past decade winners of the Laughing Horse New Act Of The Year have included Russell Kane and We Are Klang’s Greg Davies.

And among those just missing out on the top prize were Jack Whitehall, Rhod Gilbert and Nina Conti – showing the high quality of acts that have passed through this search for the best new comedy talent.

For the next fortnight The Quadrant is hosting two heats of the comedy talent contest, with resident compere Sajeela Kershi (pictured) introducing 15 new acts tonight.

All will be hoping to get through to the quarter finals and closer to the top prize of £2,000 – with the heat winner judged X Factor-style by the audience.

* Starts 8.30pm to 11pm, tickets £6/£5. Call 01273 220084.