Lee Kyle for Easter Laffalang

South Tyneside comedian Lee Kyle will be adding his comedy stamp to a hugely popular sketch show when he compares the Laffalang next month at the Westovian Theatre in South Shields.

The Easter Laffalang will be the fifth in the series of shows that features 13 sketches written by South Shields playwright Ed Waugh linked by a comedian compere.

The comedy nights are now attracting more than 350 people and are growing in popularity.

Lee follows in the footsteps of North East comedians Gavin Webster, Micky Cochrane, Mike Milligan and Steffen Peddie who have all hosted the show.

Such is the Laffalang’s appeal, Chris Ramsey did three minutes of his own material at the Valentine Laffalang and appeared in sketches. BBC news anchorman Jeff Brown also appeared as a news reporter.

Laffalang producer Gareth Hunter said: “The Valentine Laffalang attracted a record audience and the Westovian theatre was almost sold out.

“We are delighted Lee is compering the Easter show. He is an excellent comedian and we know he’ll bring his own band of fun to the show.”

Lee, who is from Jarrow and now lives in South Shields, was formerly part of an all-male Spice Girls tribute act before spending a decade as a professional wrestler.

He said: “I can’t wait. I’ve spoken to comedians who have done Laffalang and they say it’s a tremendous evening with a fantastic, warm audience. It’ll be great fun.”

The Easter Laffalang is on Friday 24 April and Saturday 25 April at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 and are available from the Visitor Information Centre in Haven Point Sports Centre. Telephone (0191) 4247788.