DAVE SPIKEY, at King George's Hall, Blackburn

STEPPING out of Peter Kay's generous shadow is no mean feat.

But Dave Spikey -- better known as Phoenix Nights's colourful compere Jerry 'The Saint' St Clair is better equipped than most.

For a decade, the silver-haired British Comedy Awards winner has honed his talents performing stand-up to unforgiving audiences across the North West.

And the whole armoury was unleashed on Blackburn to leave smiles on townsfolk as wide as Brian Potter's wheelchair tracks.

In contrast to Kay's own brilliant live show, largely based on everyday northern life, Spikey laces his humour with genuine punchlines - not forgetting that all-important bit of blue for the dads!

No-one is safe from the barrage, from old to young and even the disabled. Yet far from being offensive, it's all served up with such blatantly over-the-top wit that not even the most ardent PC punter could take offence.

Even Lancashire folk, or more precisely pie-eating Wiganers, are not exempt (Why do meat pies have a hole in the top? So people from Wigan can carry four!)

Naturally, Jerry makes his own 'guest' appearance at the end of the night to lead the fevered crowd in a comedy sing-song.

My advice: Do yourself a big favour. Reach for the stars and live the dream my friends. Live the dream!

DARREN BENTLEY