Andrew Maxwell (Comedy award)

Andrew Maxwell has a mission - to make people laugh. And the Dublin-born stand-up does it fantastically well.

His dynamic, critically-acclaimed shows see him breaking down highly-complex political and social issues and making them digestible and hilarious for his audience.

In the style of his hero and legendary Irish comedian Dave Allen he is a master of the anecdote and the quick put-down. No wonder then that Andrew was named Comics' Comic in the 2005 Chortle awards and earlier this year nominated for the if comedy award for the best show at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Other accolades include winning Channel 4's King of Comedy show in 2004. His 2006 Edinburgh show Round Twilight was a sell-out and drew critical acclaim while his club night Maxwell's Full Mooners continues to electrify late-night cabaret audiences at London's The Comedy Store.

In addition his appearance on 2006's Secret Policeman's Ball on Channel 4 was singled out by critics as the highlight of the evening.

Viewers may also remember his appearance on the ITV show Comedy Cuts - where he became teacher for a group of Japanese students trying to learn the English language.

A natural comedy talent with a sharp, insightful wit and the ability to play to audiences at almost any venue Andrew is rapidly carving a niche for himself at the very top of his profession.