Viz co-creator Simon Donald announces dyslexia benefit in Newcastle

Viz co-creator Simon Donald has announced a comedy benefit in aid of a North East dyslexia charity.

The Geordie comedian, who has dyslexia himself, will host a stand-up night at The Stand in Newcastle on Monday 20 January, with all proceeds going to Dyslexia North East.

The charity, ran by volunteers, help support those affected by dyslexia and related conditions such as ADHD, dyspraxia and autism.

Donald said: “I’m putting on the show because I want to raise awareness of the educational difficulties faced by people with dyslexia and associated conditions.

“I’ve already put on a couple of acoustic music nights to raise money for Dyslexia North East.

“At one of these I auctioned off a preview of my Edinburgh show, which I performed in someone’s sitting room. I dare say if I have a few drinks at the comedy benefit, there’s a real danger I’ll do this again.”

Gavin Webster, who launches a new show at The Stand in January, will headline the show, with support from Lee Kyle, George Zach and Sod The Tories regular Katherine Tanney.

“I’m delighted to have Gavin Webster, who is not just a good friend, but is, as everyone in comedy knows, a man with fundamentally funny bones,” Donald said.

“Lee Kyle is another of my local favourites and Katherine Tanney is a woman who seems to have a natural gift for comedy.

“George Zach will also appear, but you can’t have everything in life.

He added: “[Sunderland comedian] Matty Reed is chomping at the bit to be on the show, despite not being billed, which I guess shows that it’s a show everyone is getting excited about. I’m really looking forward to it.

“Apart from the bit with George, obviously.”

Tickets for the Dyslexia North East benefit are £5 and available to reserve by calling 0844 693 3336. The show starts at 8.30pm.