AUDIENCE members have voted for the winner of this year's Stand Up For Cider competition held in Taunton.

The competition's heats and final were held at the Creative Innovation Centre (CICCIC), located on Paul Street.

Four heats were held between February and September. The final was hosted by David Arnold, who proved popular with the crowd. 

Nine comics reached the final (held on November 25) with five performing in the first half of the show and four in the second.

During the interval, event organiser Trish Caller gave a speech to her “comedy partner in crime” Tim O’Connor, who is retiring from managing the competition's admin.

Audience members were given voting slips to choose their winner and runner-up. 

Keefy Jewell, who comes from Alton, Hampshire, took home the top prize. Chris Yates finished in second and Phil Wathen came third.

All of the contestants in the final will be given paid slots in future shows organised by Genius PR and Events in Somerset over the next year. Keefy will also get a paid spot on a line-up with a TV-level comedian.

Somerset County Gazette: The heats and grand final were held at CICCIC in Taunton.The heats and grand final were held at CICCIC in Taunton. (Image: Genius PR & Events)

Trish said: “What a fantastic year for Stand Up For Cider 2022!

“Thrilled to have hosted so many brilliant shows at the home of SUFC, The Creative Innovation Centre (CICCIC)

“Four sold out heats throughout the year culminated in an amazing final on 25 November. The finalists brought their best material to the show! 

“We are so grateful to our sponsors for their fantastic support.”

The shows were supported by Sheppys Cider, Berrys Coaches, Walpole Dunn Chartered Certified Accountants, Design Brean and your County Gazette.

Genius is organising a Taunton Comedy Club event at CICCIC on Saturday, December 17.

Tickets are available to purchase at www.creativeinnovationcentre.co.uk/comedy-standup/taunton-comedy-club-stand-up-comedy-night-sat-17th-dec.