YOU don’t need to be filthy to be funny — that’s what comedian Patrick Monahan has discovered by specifically tailoring his gigs to a family audience.

Bringing his latest show, Cake Charmer, to Burnley later this month, Patrick promises to deliver lots of ‘clean’ fun and laughter.

“It’s not blue, it’s not graphic, there’s no swearing and it’s a great family show. Really, I would never swear on stage. There is no point. I never need to. It’s just nice stand-up for a younger audience and their families,” said Patrick.

“I think it’s great that young people can get out there and experience comedy, a kind that they can enjoy with their mum and dad. They tend to like comedy in general and like watching it on TV so it’s a good way for the family to get out together.”

Patrick is currently recovering from appearing on ITV’s Saturday night celebrity diving show Splash, when he took to the diving board for the first time in his life.

He said: “It was a laugh and it was bonkers from start to finish. It is one of the biggest things that I have ever done.

“I am still aching so much. When you hit the water at 40mph it’s pretty forceful and it hurts.

“We got to meet Tom Daley and he’s a lovely bloke. He said he still gets nervous when he goes up to the 10-metre jump. Even just walking to the 10m board you’re out of breath. It’s horrific and it’s like someone walks you to the top floor of a department store and asks you to jump.”

Patrick’s new show is based on what makes people happy and is suitable for audiences aged 12 plus.

“I read an article on what makes people happy,” said Parick. “ I wrote mine down and put down what I thought it was — cake. But it wasn’t. So in this show I reveal what actually does make us happy. I compare my answers to the published list and it’s interesting.”

As well as his own stand-up shows, Patrick has developed a reputation on the corporate circuit as an after dinner speaker, as well as an awards host.

“I love live stuff and being in front of a lot of people,” he said.

“Live comics are much better than any other. You see them with lots of energy. Those who aren’t performing live tend to just be stuck in a routine, delivering the same material week after week.”

Patrick is Irish-Iranian, described on the comedy scene as a loveable Teessider who is renowned for his superb anecdotes, charm and unmistakable brand of humour.

“When I reveal in the show what is meant to make people happy, it might be a shock as we are all completely different. But for me I am happiest being busy. I always say yes to everything and I’m always up for anything.”

  • Patrick Monahan, Burnley Mechanics, Thursday February 27. Details from 01282 664400