THE Globe at Hay is launching a new stand-up comedy night, aiming to bring the best local and national comedians to Hay-on-Wye every month.

The new arts centre, in Newport Street, and Powys-based comedian Henry Widdicombe have teamed up to develop a regular high quality night of entertainment.

“When I first saw the venue I knew we could develop something a bit special there,” says Henry. “The room is perfect for comedy.”

Henry already runs two successful comedy nights in Brecon and Abergavenny and firmly believes that there is a desire for comedy outside of the cities, but it remains largely unfulfilled.

“Wales’s comedy scene is actually thriving at the moment and I want to bring it out of the main centres of population and into the market towns and rural communities, where it can have a really positive effect.”

Given Hay-on-Wye’s rich cultural legacy and a shortage of opportunities for entertaining nights out in the largely rural county, the night is set to become a regular fixture in the Hay calender.

The nights will run on the third Friday of every month and some of the best comedians from across the UK have already been lined up for forthcoming dates.

For all the information on who’s on and directions to The Globe, visit comedi.co.uk or email Henry at mail@comedi.co.uk.

For advance tickets, the Globe at Hay can be contacted on 01497 821762.