WE could all do with a laugh after the year we've just had so what better time to unveil the first ever North Essex Festival of Comedy.
More than 40 professional comedians are heading to our neck of the woods for a weekend of much-needed hilarity.
Braintree Comedy Club and Coggeshall Comedy Club have joined forces to stage the laughter fest.
The event is split over two venues – Bocking Arts Theatre in Braintree and Coggeshall's Stock Street Farm Barn.
The festival will also play host to the grand final of the first ever north Essex Golden Mic Comedian of the Year competition at Bocking Arts Theatre.