The BBC's big comedy talent search, The New Comedy Awards, has reached its climax. Over a thousand applied; more than 80 went head-to-head at showcases across the country; 30 battled it out in the regional heats; now six finalists take to the stage in their bid to win over the judges and be crowned the BBC New Comedian of 2022.

Filmed in front of a full house at St David's Hall - the National Concert Hall which sits in the heart of Cardiff - this grand finale will also feature the award for the best New Digital Comedy of 2022.

The Grand Final is a culmination of six regional heats filmed across the UK. Dee Allum won in Deptford; Omar Badawy in Exeter; Robbie McShane in Derry; Marjolein Robertson in Kilmarnock; Dan Tiernan in Middlesbrough and Joshua Bethania sealed his place at the final in Coventry.

The awards are hosted by award-winning actress and comedian, Kerry Godliman. Head judge Fern Brady is joined by fellow stand-ups Rosie Jones and Nabil Abdulrashid. Former winner of the New Comedian Award 2021, Anna Thomas, will hand over the award to this year's recipient.