A FISTFUL of funnies and gags galore are on offer at Hackney s Empire theatre tonight (Saturday) as sassy stalwart Jo Brand hosts the Best of New Act of the Year show. Brand, a comedy favourite at the Empire, presents this year s batch of seven rising com

A FISTFUL of funnies and gags galore are on offer at Hackney's Empire theatre tonight (Saturday) as sassy stalwart Jo Brand hosts the Best of New Act of the Year show.

Brand, a comedy favourite at the Empire, presents this year's batch of seven rising comic stars who were chosen by a panel of industry judges and promoters in the New Act of the Year final in January.

Topping the bill is winner and Stoke Newington's very own Fergus Craig, previously best known as one half of sketch duo Colin and Fergus and now making a name for himself as a solo stand up.

Joining him is Seann Walsh, who last month provided stellar support to rapturous applause for Stephen K Amos's Find The Funny tour, which finished its national run at the Empire.

Six-woman sketch act Lady Garden, and runners-up Jason Paterson, Jim Park, Craig Murray and David James complete the line up, which has been acclaimed as one of the best all round shows for years.

New Act of the Year has in previous years produced many of today's top comedians including Matt Lucas, Catherine Tate, Simon Amstell and Gina Yashere to name but a few. On current form, this year's acts look set to follow suit.

Best of New Act of the Year is showing at Mare Street's Hackney Empire tonight (Saturday) at 8pm. Tickets cost �14.50. Call the box office on 020 8985 2424 or visit www.hackneyempire.co.uk for more information.