Last updated 11:49, Tuesday, 18 November 2008

By Natalie ChapplesA TOP TV funnyman is heading for Furness.

Jason Manford, one of the team captains on the hit Channel 4 comedy quiz show 8 Out of 10 Cats, will perform at Forum 28 in Barrow.

The Manchester comedian, who has won several awards, is doing his first live national tour.

Joanne Marwood, programming officer at Forum 28, said: “It’s great to have Jason Manford performing at Forum 28. His show will appeal to comedy fans and we hope to have more comedy performances in the future.”

Mr Manford took over from Phoenix Nights star Dave Spikey on 8 Out of 10 Cats.

He has appeared in TV stand-up shows Live at the Apollo and the Secret Policeman’s Ball 2008. He has also been a presenter on the radio station XFM Manchester.

He got his comedy break at 17 while working as a glass collector in the Buzz, Manchester. One night, a couple of acts didn’t turn up and he volunteered to perform.

Some of the North West’s best home-grown comedy talent are fans of Mr Manford.

Johnny Vegas says he’s “hilarious”. Peter Kay says he’s arguably the king of British stand-up just now and insists he’s “very funny”.

Manford’s own website even features an extract from an old school report by his then teacher Mrs Cooper.

She said: “Jason thinks he is some kind of comedian.”

Tickets for the gig, on March 7, are on sale now. They cost £14 for adults and £12 for concessions.

They are available from Forum 28 Box Office on 01229 820000.