COMEDY fans should head down to the Frog and Bucket in Manchester for the venue's legendary Barrel of Laughs nights this weekend.

Compere Dan Nightingale will warm up the audience with his cheeky observational wit, before the evening's three acts take to the stage.

John Bishop, who takes to the stage on Friday, often starts his set with some spontaneous banter which provides an amusing and unpredictable opener.

His scripted material includes a routine about dwarf bouncers, and a widely-mixed range of gags.

Robin Ince, who will be on Saturday's bill, often veers off at angles often described as warped, but he maintains the laughs with a traditional stand-up approach.

Barry Dodds, who will feature on both nights, is a cheery and confident Northumbrian whose energy on stage wins over the audience as much as his playful, politically-incorrect comments.

Following the show, DJ Sam the Man will spin a fine selection of classic tunes until closing at 2am.

Barrel of Laughs will be on at the Frog and Bucket on Friday and Saturday night. Tickets are priced at £12 or £6 concessions on Friday, and £12 on Saturday. They are available on 0161 236 9805.