Stortford comedy star is centre stage at Grove Cottage in the Park

Bishop's Stortford's stand-up star Paddy Lennox will be raising a smile at Grove Cottage in the Park.

The comic and founder of the town's Laughing Bishops and Great Dunmow comedy clubs will be centre stage on Saturday September 3, stepping into the spotlight at around 6pm.

He said: "I am delighted to be a part of this wonderful charity event. Grove Cottage mean a lot to the local community and I'm such a keen supporter of theirs I was thrilled to have the opportunity to get involved with this event.

"They do such amazing work and support so many local families by providing such a safe and fun environment for people with learning disabilities. I have no doubt the funds raised from the event will make a huge difference. I'm really looking forward to looking round all the food and drink stalls and taking to the stage myself."

He will be followed by The Lackeys, a local band, promising cover versions "from modern bangers to the 50s origins of rock'n'roll".

Owing to unforeseen circumstances, Grove Cottage has had to cancel the planned appearance by Queen II Tribute Band at the fundraising event in Sworder's Field which means the show will end at 8pm instead of 10pm.

The fun still begins at noon with a food and drink festival, with vendors including Ques Idea Mexican Kitchen, Smok'n Greek, Amerio's Bar, The Really Good Sausage Co and Waffle & Floss.

There will also be a selection of live music from local bands including Livewire Rock Academy, De Rosa Music School, Grove Cottage Performing Arts Club, Woodwind of Stortford, Bishop's Stortford Gospel Choir, Steve Young and the Real Time Players and a Kids' Zone to entertain younger members of the family.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and children under 12 are free. To book see https://www.mencapgrovecottage.org/events/food-and-drink-festival-2/

Jeannie Philip, community fundraising manager at Grove Cottage, the home of Mencap in London Road, said: "We are really excited to be organising this event and the money raised will enable us to continue providing services to those who need us. We rely heavily on the support of the community, so events like these an invaluable to us.

"We are very grateful for the support of our sponsors who have made the event possible – our headline sponsor – Countryside, the developer of St James' Park, as well as Tees Law, HRGo Recruitment, Russell Property and DOC Cleaning."