PHOENIX Nights star Paddy McGuinness (aka Paddy the doorman) is heading to the Monaco Ballroom at Hindley as part of his first national solo tour, The Dark Side.

Paddy's appearance at the revamped Monaco on February 22 and 23, presented by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in association with No Third Entertainments, follows two sell-out Jumping on the Bandwagon tours with other stars of the Channel 4 hit show.

McGuinness is following in the footsteps of fellow Boltonian and Phoenix star Dave Spikey, who recently played two sell-out shows at the Monaco, at a venue that is fast becoming one of Greater Manchester's capitals of comedy.

"I can't wait to get the show on the road and I'm really looking forward to performing at the Monaco. I know Dave speaks really highly of the set-up there and the atmosphere is supposed to be fantastic," said Paddy.

"My show is all about having fun and getting the audience involved. It should be a great night."

And Leisure Venues manager Brian Yates eagerly awaits the show: "We can't wait. The Monaco is building a good reputation as a comedy venue and we are keen to enhance that. We are determined to provide people with quality entertainment at an affordable price.

"We will have more surprises on show at the Monaco over the next 12 months. I would urge people to buy their tickets early for this one - the Dave Spikey shows sold out within days."

In fact the Thursday show sold out so fast that the organisers arranged the further show for the Wednesday night. Tickets, priced £15, are on sale at the Tourist Information Centre (opposite Wigan Northwestern train station), or by calling 01942 825677.