A COMEDIAN who organised an evening of laughs and prizes said she has been “blown away” by the line-up and generosity of those taking part.

Brighton-based comedian Maisie Adam, who has recently appeared on Mock The Week, QI and Have I Got News For You, will host her Online Christmas Comedy Spectacular on Friday evening on Zoom.

There will be performances from stand-up stars including fellow Brighton comedian Angela Barnes, as well as Jayde Adams and Russell Kane, with musical treats and a raffle.

The Argus: Comedian Angela BarnesComedian Angela Barnes

Maisie said: “I’m very proud to be a patron of a small charity called Frank’s Fund and I try to do as much fundraising as I can.

“It’s been a tough year for everyone but for small charities especially. I still really wanted to do something so we’re doing the show online.

“It’s amazing what we’ve been able to do with the line-up and prizes. I’ve been completely blown away with the generosity.”

Frank’s Fund was set up after Frank Ashton, who went to the same school as Maisie up in Yorkshire, died from a form of bone cancer called Ewing sarcoma last year at the age of 14.

Maisie said: “Frank had countless rounds of chemotherapy and really went through hell.

“What blew my mind is survival rates for this type of cancer have not improved for 30 years. It’s shocking it gets so little funding.

“I don’t think this should be happening so I really wanted to get involved. Frank’s Fund is so worthwhile as all the money goes into research for Ewing sarcoma.

“Hopefully within another 30 years there will be a cure.”

Maisie has organised a virtual auction as part of the event, with some incredible prizes. As Frank was a big fan of Chelsea Football Club, the club has donated an official shirt from the 2020/21 season signed by members of the first team squad.

The Argus: Russell Kane will performRussell Kane will perform

Maisie said: “We could not believe it with Chelsea. We also have a week-long holiday in a French cottage up for grabs too in our auction, and lots of raffle prizes worth up to £100.

“We’re really excited. I think it’s going to be a perfect antidote to what everyone is going through at the moment.”

The show starts at 7pm on Friday and tickets are £10. Donations will be accepted throughout the evening and viewers can purchase raffle tickets with their main ticket.

To buy tickets for the event, visit the Eventbrite page here.

More information on Frank's Fund is here.