Top comedians will appear at a benefit gig to fulfil a dying playwright’s wish.

Some of the biggest names in UK comedy are raising funds for an open air theatre in the city.

The line-up at the Brighton Dome on June 16 includes Stewart Lee, Mark Thomas, Tim Vine, Simon Evans, Joanna Neary and compere Susan Murray.

Adrian Bunting was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer last month.

He died on Saturday, May 11, at the age of 47.

Knowing he had just weeks to live, Mr Bunting spent the last month of his life putting together plans for the open-air theatre in the city’s Dyke Road Park.

The seasonal venue, which would be open to the public, is expected to cost £25,000 to create.

About £18,000 was left by Mr Bunting in a legacy fund and the comedians hope the rest can be raised through a charity event.

Mr Bunting had been involved in the city’s arts scene since the early 1990s when he established Zincbar cabaret.

He wrote the play Kemble’s Riot, which is due to play at New York Fringe later this year.

Comedian Susan Murray told The Argus: “As soon as I mentioned it they all jumped at the chance.

"They all wanted to join forces to present an evening of comedy and laughter in memory of Adrian.

"He contributed so much to the artistic landscape in Brighton.

“He believed passionately in the power of theatre and the Brighton Open Air Theatre will be his lasting legacy.

“He knew everybody and was always supportive of what people were doing.

"We all wanted to make it the best line-up we could and I think we have done that.

"It should be an amazing gig.”

Tickets cost £20, concessions £15.

For more information call 01273 709709 or email tickets@brightodome.org.