A TROUPE of award-winning comedians are to preview their new Edinburgh Festival material in Worcester.

Not one, not two, not three, but four stand-ups are taking part in The Comedy Zone at Worcester's Marr's Bar.

First up, on Thursday, June 28, will be rising star Russell Howard, who performed earlier in the year to a sell-out crowd. He will be joined by twice Perrier award winner Phil Nichol.

Then, on Thursday, July 5, Welsh comedian and Perrier nominee Rhod Gilbert, will perform along with world record holder for the longest ever stand-up show (36 hours), Mark Watson.

"If you were to ask any group of critics, promoters, audiences and comedians for their lists of top 10 funniest stand-ups, these four names would feature time and time again," said Comedy Zone promoter Adam Montgomery.

"It's a tribute to the venue and the Worcester audience that comedians of this stature actually request to perform at the Marr's Bar now."

Tickets, £10 or £16 for both nights, are available in advance from Music City in The Tything and from the Marr's Bar. Shows start at 9pm, doors open at 8pm and there is a late bar.