By John Connell

Last updated at 14:13, Monday, 27 February 2012

A Carlisle comedian has been shortlisted to perform his stand-up routine in a world famous comedy event in New York.

Martin Croser

Martin Croser, 30, is one of five funnymen still in the running to perform alongside top names at The Secret Policeman’s Ball on Friday this week.

Should he win, he will perform stand up-comedy, sharing the stage with the likes of Russell Brand and Sarah Silverman.

Martin, who made his stand-up debut at Carlisle’s Don’t Mention the Floods comedy club, said: “It was surprising. There are some really good people in the final.

“It was nice to get a bit of recognition but I don’t know whether I will win.

“If I don’t, I’m more than happy with what I have had so far: an interview with the News & Star!”

His routine in New York would see him read a 15-syllable poem.

Martin’s gag-based brand of comedy has seen him steadily moving up the comedy ladder.

Martin moved to London from Carlisle three years ago, though his parents still live in Carlisle.

Watch Martin Croser performing. Article continues below...

He went to Upperby Primary School and Trinity School.

Carlisle features only very rarely in his stand-up routines.

“So many comedians do gigs about their home town that it helps not to do that,” he said.

But he does have plans to include Keswick’s Pencil Museum.

“That place is wonderful. I love the fact that it exists and that they got the whole history of the pencil into one room.”

Also facing the public vote along with Martin are Christian Talbot, a 39-year-old comedian from Northern Ireland; double-act Haiste and Lawrence; Chris Turner, a 22-year-old comedian from Manchester; and a grumpy dragon called “Piff”.

To vote for Martin visit www.facebook.com/secretpoliceman.

The Secret Policeman’s Ball was established in 1976 to celebrate freedom of expression, using anarchic humour to throw a spotlight on human rights abuses.

It returns this year to mark Amnesty International’s 50th anniversary.

First published at 11:27, Monday, 27 February 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk