A good-humoured crowd gathered at the FX Bar, and as the jugs of lager flowed, the humour became more riotous.

The monthly comedy club, hosted by Steve Harris, is aimed at promoting rising regional talent.

A first for Warrington, it is quietly making a name for itself and attracting a loyal following.

Compered by chain-smoking funny man Toby Hodoke, who has that 'just got out of bed look' the evening got off to a good start with some wicked wisecracks. Tony's claim to fame includes once appearing in Coronation Street.

First up on stage was Liam Gallagher lookalike (Keith Carter) as stereotypical Scouser Nige, The Park Road Scally. Shell-suited Nige tells us he's an unemployed trainee assassin and warns the audience about the dangers of work - once started it can become seriously addicitive.

Razor sharp Nige, who describes himself as the Harold Shipman of comedy, "known for his lack of patience," was original and very funny.

Balding Bill Wolland, another Scouser, but one who has adopted Warrington, was one of the shorter acts of the night. He brought some home-grown comedy to the evening which touched on the usefulness of town centre water features after a boozy night out.

School sports day and granny's toenails were part of endless material delivered at speed by Wigan's Wayne Dawber, before our host Steve put a persistent heckler in his place (you know who you are.)

Finally the evening ended with Glaswegian Des McLean. It was an energetic start from dancing Des who could imitate anyone from Billy Connolly to Frank Sinatra. Clever stuff.

This is one monkey that means business!

(Note of caution: not for the easily offended.) Nicola Priest