As part of its commitment to develop and showcase emerging comedy talent and writing, two brand new series of comedy shorts are set to debut on BBC Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer.

Comedians In Chippies Getting Fatter sees comedian Ciarán Bartlett joined by long-time friends and fellow funny folk Shane Todd, Diona Doherty, William Thompson and Colin Murphy as they dine out at some of Ciarán’s favourite eateries in Belfast. Across the four episodes, no topic is out of bounds as the comics take a trip down memory lane, share their delight at Northern Ireland’s thriving comedy scene and at how their careers continue to go from strength to strength. All while having a massive feed of lunch!

Stand-Up From The Sunflower features no holds barred comedy performances from exciting up-and-coming acts, alongside some more established names on the local stand-up scene. With an abundance of new talent coming through, Stand-Up From The Sunflower provides a unique platform for newbies to make a name for themselves. The series was filmed in front of a live audience in the Belfast bar.

Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning, BBC Northern Ireland says: “We know there is a wealth of creative talent here in Northern Ireland and we’re very excited to be bringing these fresh comedy shorts to viewers. We’re proud to be giving the next generation of talent a platform, with many of the performers making their first appearance on television.”

Comedians In Chippies Getting Fatter is made by Fat Panda Media and starts Tuesday 23 January at 11.40pm on BBC One Northern Ireland with the full series available on BBC iPlayer.

Stand-Up From The Sunflower is a Southpaw Pictures/One L Studios production and begins Monday 19 February at 11.40pm on BBC One Northern Ireland and all will be available on BBC iPlayer.