THURSDAY and Friday evenings at this year's Hatherleigh Festival are set to be events of groundbreaking hilarity and merriment.

Thursday July 12 is comedy night. Following the success of last year's Comedy Club, this year promises to be even funnier. Compere Alistair Barrie is known for his sharp dry wit, which has ensured that he is a regular at the major London clubs. Rather cute and very engaging, Alistair will set the pace for George Egg and Noel Fielding.

Described as 'shocking and funny' George Egg's foolish jokes and surrealist jaunts provide an unrivalled comic experience, which whilst shocking are inoffensive and very entertaining.

Noel Fielding takes a break from filming his new channel four TV series (to be shown later this year) to bring his 'outstanding comedy' to the festival.

As if all this excitement wasn't enough the staggeringly surreal hKippers will be performing on Friday evening.

The line up of about ten musicians is a sight to behold. They include Paul Bradley (Nigel from Eastenders), whose repertoire includes plying the sellotape!

They are brilliant fun, the music is wild and sure to get people dancing, whilst the lyrics and the musicians will keep you entertained all evening.

l Comedy evening Thursday July 12 in Hatherleigh Town Hall 8.30pm £6 (£4).

l The hKipper Friday July 13 in Hatherleigh Town Hall. 9pm. £6 (£4).

Tickets available from the box office on 01827 810823. Enquiry's to the festival office on 01837 811116.