Ten finalists, instead of the usual nine, have been announced for the 2023 So You Think You're Funny? new act stand-up contest.

The Gilded Balloon, which organises the long-running prestigious competition, says: "After months of regional showcases and competitions heats at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a panel of judges conferred to decide on a 10-strong finalist line-up, for the first time in years."

The final, which will be hosted by 2017 winner Maisie Adam, will take place at the Gilded Balloon from 7:30pm on Thursday 24th August.

The finalists are:

Alex Lennox

Archit Goenka

Carwyn Blayney

Chantel Nash

Christopher Donovan

Cormac Sinnott

Lauren Carroll

Lizzie Norm

Samira Banks

Sophie Gerrad

Katy and Karen Koren, directors of Gilded Balloon, say: "It's overwhelmingly positive news for the UK's comedy industry that So You Think You're Funny? was such a strong competition this year. So strong in fact, that for only the 2nd time in our history, the judging panel decided to put 10 finalists through instead of our usual maximum of 9.

"From regional showcases and competition heats this month, our panel whittled over 400 applicants down to this final 10 - and we think there are some real gems included in this year's line-up. In the competition's 36th year, it's really incredible to still have such a huge number of applicants and especially ones of such a high pedigree. We can't wait to see who takes the crown and follow the careers of some of these hugely talented new comics."

Dedicated to providing a stage for emerging talent, the competition is only open to new acts who have performed less than 15 spots and are currently unsigned. This year's finalists performed at regional showcases across the UK, before performing in front of a panel of judges and audiences at competition heats throughout August at Gilded Balloon. The finalists now have one last chance to impress the judges with a 7 minute slot at the grand final next week.

Since it began in 1988, the So You Think You're Funny? competition has become notable for spotting future stand-up stars. Dylan Moran, Peter Kay, Lee Mack, Romesh Ranganathan, Sara Pascoe and Aisling Bea are amongst the previous finalists.

This year's winner will receive a cash prize; a fully paid for solo show (or mixed bill) run as part of the Gilded Balloon's Fringe programme; a paid performance slot in the Comedy Arena and weekend pass at Latitude Festival; a paid Friday spot at Glee Birmingham plus accommodation; a full weekend of paid spots at the Boat Show in London; two 7 minute spots at Just For Laughs London; a fully paid for recording and edit of their debut solo show available on the Next Up platform; a complimentary headshot photoshoot by professional photographer Steve Ullathorne; a complimentary filmed copy and professional photographs of their spot from the final to use in their showreel; and mentorship and support from the So You Think You're Funny? team.