A POPULAR comedy competition returns this year - with the first round being held at the end of this month.

Stand Up For Cider, now celebrating its eighth year, is being held at the Creative Innovation Centre (CICCIC) in Taunton.

The competition is organised by Trish Caller, who said she is 'super excited' about this years event.

Trish, who runs Genius PR and Events, said: “We have the best acts and audiences at every show.

"Audience members are given scoring sheets on arrival so they can vote for their favourite amateur comedian on the night.

"The top two or three from each round will then go through to the grand final.”

Berry’s Coaches, Walpole Dunn Chartered Certified Accountants and Design Bean are sponsoring the event.

New sponsors for 2022 include the County Gazette series and Sheppy's Cider.

Matt Hill, marketing manager at Sheppy's, added: “Sheppy’s Cider is delighted to sponsor Stand up for Cider 2022, supporting comedians with a platform to showcase their skills in the heart of our town.”

Sheppy's Cider will be served at the bar during the events and their ciders will be awarded as prizes to the competing comedians.

Each show is hosted by resident MC David Arnold.

The comedians involved will range from amateurs to semi-professionals, giving a range of rising stars the chance to steal the spotlight. A professional headline act will also perform during the events.

The first round of Stand Up For Cider will take place at CICCIC on Paul Street in Taunton, on Friday, February 25.

The rest of the dates are as follows: May 20, July 22, September 30 and November 25 (the final).

Tickets cost £12. For more visit creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk/comedy-standup/ .