GET ready to roar with laughter as a top Cardiff comedy club comes to Gwent.

The Poncho Comedy Club, normally resident at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff, is coming to the Arena, Abertillery, on June 3 as part of its quest to bring Welsh comedy to the Welsh people.

The Poncho club was set up a year ago, and since September promoter Sian Parry has concentrated on showcasing up and coming comedians. It is her mission to put Wales on the comedy map, and the Poncho has attracted acts from all across the UK as well as becoming a proving ground for more home-grown comedy talent.

Sian said: "We have been able to encourage a new young breed of comedians from Wales.

"Now we want to travel and give people the opportunity to see Poncho everywhere.

"I am trying to establish a comedy circuit in Wales and to take it to areas that don't usually have this form of entertainment."

The Abertillery gig is the first time Poncho has performed outside of Cardiff, and Sian says she is really looking forward to it.

"It's going to be a challenge because of the different crowd and the fact we are new to the area, but if it goes well we will be able to travel even more. "It's a great form of entertainment and there will be something for everyone."

Abertillery comedian Nathan Webb is set to showcase his talent at the hometown gig.

Nathan performed at the Edinburgh Fringe festival last summer, and made the Semi Finals of Channel 4 talent search So You Think You're Funny. He labels his set style 'Shrinking Up' - an observational, mick-taking, nostalgic scrutiny around experiences of growing up and the influences that make us what we are as we grow older.

Also confirmed are Frank Honeybone, compering, Elis James, Dan Mitchell and Jeff Baker, with more acts expected.

The gig starts at 8pm, entry £5 on the door. Adults only.

To book Poncho comedians for your venue call Sian Parry on 07742 646988 or e-mail info@ponchocomedy.com Darren Evans