The winner of Bath New Act 2023 is Mark Flynn.

The stand-up, who is based in East London, said: "I'm honestly stunned to win against such talented opposition, people I look up to, it's been a fantastic event at a brilliant venue."

He was presented with the coveted Bath Comedy New Act Of The Year Award, a cheque for £250 and will also receive guaranteed paid gigs throughout the following year.

The live final took place last night (Friday 14th April) as part of the Bath Comedy Festival, with second place going to Sam Picone, and Chris Yates placing third.

The judges also awarded honourable mentions to Kev Mud and Emma Coyne.

The other finalists who qualified for this year's grand final at the Forum Theatre were Tim Biglowe, Dane Buckley, José Fortuna, Sharon Jackson, Mara Mainka, Anita Surat and Josh Watmore.

All the finalists received a goody bag with beer from Bath Ales.

Almost 200 acts applied to take part in this year's competition, with 120 given the chance to perform in the heats.

Nick Steel, Bath Comedy Festival Director, says: "The standard in the twelve Bath New Act heats this year was very high, which made tonight's grand final very strongly contended and created a challenge for the judges, but the top three tonight were all outstanding. We have definitely witnessed some future stars in the making this evening."

The final was hosted by Geoff Whiting and last year's winner, Adam Flood, also performed while the judges deliberated over their choice.

This year's judges were producer Alan Nixon, producer Mark Robson, comedian and promoter Angie Belcher, promoter Trish Caller and festival director Nick Steel.