STAND Up For Cider is making a return to Taunton this week for what will be its ninth year of existence.

The well-established comedy competition is held at The Creative Innovation Centre in Paul Street, Taunton.

Trish Caller, who runs Genius PR and Events, who are hosting the event, said: “I am super excited about Stand Up For Cider this year! 

"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.”

Each show is hosted by resident MC David Arnold; he introduces the competing comedians.

The acts will be at amateur to semi-pro level, not a full-time comedian yet but on the way up.

As well as that, there will also be a professional headline act from the cream of the UK comedy circuit to top off the evening. First up is Jon Wagstaffe.

The first round of Stand up for Cider will be taking place on Friday, February 24.

These are the dates for this year’s competition.

  • Friday February 24
  • Friday May 19
  • Friday July 21
  • Friday September 29
  • Friday November 24 – FINAL

This year, Berry’s Coaches, Sheppy’s Cider, County Gazette, Walpole Dunn Chartered Certified Accountants and Design Bean are the sponsors of the event.

A spokesperson said: "The County Gazette are the media partners for Genius PR & Events. They will be helping to spread the word about all the comedy events coming to Somerset.

"We are delighted to be sponsored by Sheppy’s Cider. We are very grateful for their support. Their quality ciders will be available at the bar and will also be awarded as prizes for the competing comedians."

Doors open at 7.00pm for an 8.00pm start and tickets costing £12 (Or £14 on the door if available) are available now by calling 01823 337477 or visit https://www.creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk/comedy-standup/