ST ANNES comedian Clive Cooper is laughing all the way to London's famous Comedy Store.

For Clive, 35, has clinched a place in the semi-final of the Comedy Store's national search for new talent on May 18.

He won his heat against stiff competition when stars from the Comedy Store Hooch tour came to Blackpool's Grand Theatre on April 24.

Receiving his Stand Up for Hooch Award and a case of Hoopers Hooch, Clive said, "I'm really chuffed."

The audience gave him a big boost, he said.

"There was a real buzz on the night and the main comedians were really encouraging," he added.

The judges said they chose Clive for his originality, style and ability to raise laughs.

Now the ex-army chef who lives with his girlfriend in The Hamlet, is writing a new act for his London appearance, when he will be up against seven other Stand Up for Hooch Award winners.

The grand final is on May 24 at the Comedy Theatre.

Having given up a Mediterranean cruise engagement to to take part, Clive - who went solo only seven months ago after eight years in a comedy double act - is determined to do his best.

In the meantime local people can see him at the Edward Hotel, South Promenade, every Friday, or the Sheraton Hotel on May 9.

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