Comedian O'Doherty wins 'top award'

5:51am Monday 25th August 2008

Stand-up comic David O'Doherty has been handed the UK's most prestigious comedy award.

The charismatic Irishman scooped the Intelligent Finance Comedy Awards 2008 - and £8,000 prize money - for his show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Nica Burns, director of the awards, described his work as "utterly delightful".

"An hour with David O'Doherty fills the world with laughter and charm and sends you home on a wave of happiness," she added.

The best newcomer prize of £4,000 went to Sarah Millican, praised by judges as an outstanding stand-up with a charming persona.

"She delivers an evening of laughs," said Ms Burns.

And in a move to celebrate the "true spirit of the Fringe", a panel prize of at least £4,000 will be shared among all performers at a party on Monday.

The decision follows heated debate over a decision by the established venues to come together under a separate banner.

Ms Burns previously warned that professional set-ups were squeezing out amateur showcases.

Veteran writer and broadcaster Clive James and last year's winner Brendon Burns presented the awards at the Jam House in Edinburgh.