A Trust has been formed to encourage new comedy writers. The David Nobbs Memorial Trust is supported by comedy veterans and long-time friends of the late writer David Nobbs, including Barry Cryer and Michael Palin. The aim is to raise cash from amongst the comedy community and the wider public to run an annual comedy writing competition.

David Nobbs, who died in August 2015, was most famous for writing the TV sitcoms The Fall And Rise of Reginald Perrin and A Bit Of A Do, but in a long career he also worked with Kenneth Williams, Frankie Howerd, Les Dawson and The Two Ronnies and wrote many novels.  

Trust chair, journalist, Mary O’Hara said: “Getting a foothold as a writer be it in sketch, book writing or sitcom, can be tough so we’ve decided to try to help those starting out. Our plan is to run a competition in David’s name and award a modest bursary that could help winners set aside some precious hours for writing.”

Michael Palin added: “I knew David Nobbs from the very earliest days – when we were both struggling comedy writers. Throughout my subsequent career David was extraordinarily helpful and supportive. I’m delighted, through his name, to continue his help and support for new writing talent.”

The Trust has opened an online appeal for members of the public to donate – large or small – and plans to launch its first competition in the autumn.

Donations can be made in the following ways:

There is a Just Giving Page here.

Online banking: The David Nobbs Memorial Trust; sort code: 60-09-15 a/c: 73140961

There is a Facebook page here. 

Twitter: @NobbsMemorial