LAUGH all you want, but a stand-up comic is planning to help Notts chuckle its way through the economic downturn.

Colwick comedian Matt Turner is offering a crash course in the art of comedy to help put a smile on people's faces.

The workshop is thought to be the first of its kind to be held in the county.

Matt said: "Laughter is the best medicine. Especially in this day and age with the economic crisis and crime, people need to laugh more than ever."

The workshop has been organised through the Friends of the Mirth group, which aims to boost people's personal confidence and learn the tricks of the trade.

"In doing comedy, you are giving something to people and getting something back. It is immediate gratification," Matt said.

Matt, a teacher at Mill Hill School in Derbyshire, has been doing stand up comedy for the past two years.

Though learning any skill can take years, he said this "short sharp introduction" to comedy could help budding stand-up stars achieve their dream.

"I teach full time and wanted to transfer my skills as a teacher and a comedian to help people," he said.

"In both jobs, you are in front of an audience. Teaching is a hard job. There are both highs and lows in comedy but it is definitely safer."

The workshop also gives people the opportunity to enjoy a live gig and do a five-minute spot in front of a live audience.

Apart from being a finalist in the First Laugh Comedian of the Year 2007 and 2008, Matt has also performed in front of 400 people at Sheffield Memorial Hall and is currently working towards publishing his own podcast, blogs and video sketches.

The workshop will take place at the Robin Hood pub in Sherwood on July 5.

To book a place, log on to www.friendsofthemirth.com

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