L ast month, Nathan Evans had never done stand-up before, but after accidentally winning a competition at Three Flying Ducks, in Leigh, he found himself booked for a gig.

He tried his hand at the comedy club’s first open mic spot last month, and found himself a hit. He’ll appear tomorrow at the Ship, in Old Leigh, alongside bill topper David Whitney and Danny Ward.

Nathan says: “I saw the advert for the open mic night and thought I’d have a go. I didn’t realise it was a competition when I entered. I probably wouldn’t have done it if I’d known. It’s scary enough trying to get laughs in the first place.”

Nathan, who usually works in IT sales, had only taken to the stage on one occasion before, so he was surprised at being booked to return.

He admits: “It’s something I wish I’d done years ago. I never really got round to it.

“Last year, at a Westcliff Tennis Club night, I did an impression of Rhod Gilbert. It went down really well and that encouraged me.”

Nathan will go ahead of headline act David Whitney, an established comic and accomplished bagpiper, with an impressive list gigs, including playing rock star Gwen Stefani’s wedding by personal request.

Three Flying Ducks The Ship New Road, Old Leigh Tomorrow 8pm £8 advance, £10 on door 07941 502577