The Duke’s Head in Putney hosts weekly standup comedy nights for new acts – as well as more experienced comics trying out fresh material alongside their tried and tested jokes.

Hosted by the We Are Funny Project every Wednesday, the free nights give audiences the chance of spotting a potential star of the future, and boast a seasoned compere and a professional headline act to end the show.

Wednesday sees the “clumsy charm” of headliner Richard Todd – described as “one of the finest new pro acts on the British scene”.

We Are Funny’s creative director Alfie Noakes says: “Richard Todd has more unique spins on life than almost any other act I have seen. In another world he would have made a perfect Dr Who, if you could gene splice Tom Baker with Ross Noble, and then add some mania.

“At our comedy nights we are creating opportunities for people who want to have their first crack at telling jokes on stage at an open mic night, and we also operate comedy workshops for newer acts.

“It’s always about the art of stand-up, but it’s refreshing to see so many talented people creating new laughs and not relying on the same old material.

“It’s very clear that the audiences are enjoying the new stuff. These shows are among the most fun free nights out in London and anyone can get involved.

“I have always loved standup comedy and have been involved in staging shows for over four years as both promoter and MC. My experience as a TV producer and director helped me to realise that there is a sea of untapped talent in London and there was a need to increase opportunities for the acts and to improve the quality of shows.”

We are Funny comedy night; The Duke’s Head; 8 Lower Richmond Road, Putney SW15 1JN; Wednesday, September 24 (and every Wednesday); doors 7pm, show 8pm; free; visit wearefunnyproject.com for more information.