Three friends are hoping people will laugh at their new venture but for all the right reasons.

kmfm breakfast DJ Andy Walker has teamed up with friends Dan Cardwell and Shaun Gray to launch a new Kent comedy night.

Mr Cardwell, 30, from Brewer Street, Maidstone said: “It’s a proven fact that people’s inclination to live comedy increases during times of recession.”

Mr Cardwell, who has himself experienced the thrill of getting laughs after being a stand-up comedian for two years, added: “As soon as I stood on stage and got my first laughs I become quite addicted to stand-up. In fact, it’s become a bit of an obsession. But I think that’s what makes our little team ideal to put this night on - rather than chasing a quick buck, it’s a chance to bring all the acts we really love down to Kent to perform in front of a local crowd and really raise everyone’s spirits.”

The trio's comedy night, Laughter in the Rain, will take place on the first Friday of every month at the Rain Club in Eureka Park, Ashford.

The first night line-up boasts the talents of Ray Peacock, who has appeared in Harry Hill’s TV Burp and Doctor Who, rising star Tom Deacon, who since winning a coveted Chortle award has burst onto the scene, appearing on Paramount’s Edinburgh & Beyond and hosting the BBC’s 5:19, before being rounded off by Stewart Francis, an internationally acclaimed comedian who made his name in the states, before relocating to the UK. Comedy fans will recognise him from his TV appearances on such shows as Mock the Week and 8 out of 10 Cats.

“It’s an amazing first night line-up”, said Mr Cardwell, “To be able to get all these guys on the same bill guarantees it’s going to be a top night.”

The first Laughter in the Rain is taking place on May 1. Doors open at 8pm, with the comedy starting at 9. A disco will take place after until 2am.

Tickets cost £10 and are available from www.laughterintherain.co.uk

or by ringing the Laughter in the Rain Office on 01622 687371.