Big Laughs for a Brilliant Cause

Mark and I had a rather joyful (and slightly mortifying) evening at the Comedy Gala, held at the wonderful .

We began by confidently presenting ourselves at entirely the wrong pre-show reception and inadvertently gate-crashing the sponsors’ event. Full marks, then, to everyone there for responding in the most impeccably British way possible: smiling, welcoming us in, and absolutely not pointing out our error. Particular thanks to Finders Keepers Lettings and Sales Agency for their generosity and good humour – kindness very much in the spirit of the evening.

Once correctly located, we settled in for a cracking line-up curated by , with a brilliant mix of established names and fresh voices:

• Glenn Moore

• Hassan Al-Habib

• Sara Barron

• Amelia Hamilton

• Ian Smith

• Alex Farrow

There were laughs all round, but Hassan Al-Habib was particularly brilliant – sharp, warm, and pitch-perfect in reading the room.

Beyond the punchlines, the evening was a powerful reminder of the vital work Oxfordshire Mind does day in, day out. Local, accessible mental health support matters – especially at a time when so many people are struggling quietly. Events like this do more than raise funds: they bring people together, reduce stigma, and create space for conversations that really matter.

A feel-good night in every sense – laughter, generosity, and a cause well worth showing up for (even if, occasionally, at the wrong door).