Comedian delays show start time so people can vote

A comedian has delayed the start of a show taking place on the day of the general election so people have more time to vote.

Ed Byrne was due on stage at Middlesbrough Town Hall at 19:30 BST on Thursday as part of a nationwide tour.

But his performance of Tragedy Plus Time will now begin half an hour later.

Mr Byrne said: "I’d hate to be the reason people gave for why they didn’t vote."

Middlesbrough Town Hall general manager Kesia Bruce said the venue was "happy to support" Mr Byrne's suggestion and the venue would still be open from 19:00 for those who wanted to arrive earlier.

"We’re really looking forward to welcoming Ed back to the Town Hall for what is guaranteed to be a great night,” she said.

Byrne's election day show explores the grief and loss he felt following the death of his younger brother Paul, aged 44, in 2022.

Voter turnout in Middlesbrough has been below the UK average at the last three general elections.

In 2019, it was 56.1%, the lowest in the north-east of England and in the bottom 20 constituencies.