Donna Williams, Melike Sabak, Miranda Brennan, Nick Morey, Nigel Wolfin, Paul Haines, Stanislav Gunko and Tracey Davies also competed.  

 

The final took place at the Carpenter's Arms, Whitfield Street W, was hosted by Steve McLean and headlined by Sarah Mills. 

 

Matt Arnold from Dulwich Hamlet comedy served as a judge with McLean doubling as the second judge to cover a late illness. 

 

As well as the title, Fred wins a small amount of money (£125) and some spots on pro-bills with Rural Roars (Surrey), AComedy (Essex) and Hamley Comedy (Dulwich). All the finalists will be offered spots on an Edinburgh Fringe showcase show. 

 

The West End New (old) Act of the Year was set up to give a platform to new acts who started later in life. It is open to all comedians over the age of 35 who have been going under four years. 

 

McLean said 'I've been hosting shows for WENAOTY since 2022 and the standard seems to improve every year. I knew we were going to have a cracker of a final when I hosted the semis. The sheer amount of fresh talent coming through is staggering' 

 

The main West End New Act of the Year competition starts in January.