Southend funnyman Russell is the toast of Edinburgh (From Echo)

Southend funnyman Russell is the toast of Edinburgh

9:37am Wednesday 1st September 2010 in

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COMEDIAN Russell Kane has followed in the footsteps of comedy greats by bagging the biggest prize in stand-up comedy.

Russell, 30, who lives in Westcliff, won the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award and £10,000 prize money at the world-famous Fringe festival in the Scottish capital.

It was third time lucky for Russell, who has been nominated for the accolade for the last two years.

He was also shortlisted for best newcomer in 2006.

Speaking to the Echo from Edinburgh, he said: “It’s unbelievable.

“I feel elated.

“It still hasn’t sunk in yet.

“I didn’t think I would even make it onto the shortlist.

“The highest prize in comedy is coming to Westcliff!

“I might treat my missus Sadie to a meal at the Boatyard in Leigh.”

Russell won for his autobiographical show Smokescreens and Castles, which focuses on growing up in Enfield between the ages of five and 15.

By winning the award, Russell joins comic legends Steve Coogan, Frank Skinner and the Cambridge Footlights, including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie and Emma Thompson, who won the first ever prize in 1981.

Russell will be touring the country with Smokescreens and Castles from the end of September and is due to appear at The Palace Theatre, Westcliff, on January 21.