THIS AUTUMN is set be a season of merriment at The Theatre Chipping Norton, thanks to rib-tickling evenings with top comedians.

Jeremy Hardy will take a bow on Friday, October 6, from 8pm.

A spokesman said: "Jeremy Hardy is in his fourth decade as a stand-up this year. That’s a more dramatic way of saying he started 33 years ago and, without a lottery win, probably has at least another 33 years to go.

"In 2014, the tenth series of Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation was broadcast on Radio 4. He is also well known for his appearances on The News Quiz and I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue. Indeed, Alan Bennett recently said he likes him “but he’s only on the radio”.

However, Jeremy isn’t only on the radio, his television credits include: Jack Dee’s Election Helpdesk (BBC2), QI (BBC1), Mock The Week (BBC2), Grumpy Old Men(BBC1), Back In The Day (BBC2), Not Tonight With John Sergeant (BBC2)."

Phill Jupitus will bring his Juplicity show to the venue on Friday November 24, from 7.45pm.

The spokesman said: "Join stand-up comedian, poet, improviser, and TV stalwart Phill Jupitus for over an hour of tales, laughs and diversions. Watch in delight or horror as this experienced funny man drags laughs out of the chaos of his own life and the uncertain world that surrounds it. Expect adult themes and situations, but delivered childishly.

Phill became a familiar face when he started as team captain on BBC2’s pop quiz Never Mind The Buzzcocks in 1996, which went on to run for 19 years."

On Thursday, December 7, from 7.45pm, Mitch Benn will tell the audience, "Don't Fear the Reaper."

But is he true to his convictions?

The spokesman said: "The country's leading musical satirist has turned 46 - over the hill by anyone's standards; - his personal life is in turmoil, and his childhood heroes are dropping like flies.

"Mitch confronts his and your mortality with hilarious and tuneful consequences."

Tickets and further details on 01608 642350.