A NEW night of comedy in the Black Country this summer has added a former Big Breakfast presenter and stand-up comic to the bill.

Paul Tonkinson, who was hand-picked by Michael McIntyre to be the support act on his recent national tour, will appear at Brierley Hill Civic Hall on July 16.

The popular Yorkshireman has stepped in to replace Kerry Godliman for the show – who was forces to withdraw for personal reasons – while rapper and comedian Doc Brown and local sketch group The Fizzogs also feature on the bill.

‘Live At The Civic’ will be hosted by Dudley comic Wayne Beese, who also MCs Katie Fitzgerald’s monthly Fitz of Laughter Comedy Club, and nearly 400 tickets have already been snapped up by comedy fans.

Wayne said: “Naturally we are really disappointed Kerry has had to withdraw from the show, but we are delighted to be able to announce that Paul Tonkinson will be replacing her.

“He will probably be best remembered to many for his stint hosting The Big Breakfast, but he has been one of the top comics on the UK circuit and beyond for many years now.

“You don't get to be the hand-picked support act for one of the biggest comedians on the planet without having something – and a lot of people who went to see McIntyre commented afterwards that Paul was worth the ticket money alone, he is that good.

“With Doc Brown and the Fizzogs also on the bill, we believe we have put together an excellent and varied bill of comedy.”

Doc Brown is well known for his appearances on a number of TV shows including Derek, Live At The Apollo, The John Bishop Show and The Inbetweeners, while Black Country-based Fizzogs have racked up more than 100 million Youtube hits for their renowned ‘Dancing Grannies’ sketches.

Early bird tickets are still available costing £12.50, but once the last 50 are sold the price will increase to £18.50.

To book tickets for the show – doors opening at 7.30pm – call the Midland Box Office on 0870 320 7000, visit to box office in person, or book online at www.midlandboxoffice.co.uk