Paul Tonkinson

Unlike a lot of bitter-and-twisted comics stomping and sulking their way through the Fringe, Paul Tonkinson is one of a rare breed that appears to like what he does for a living. An experienced headliner best known for his work presenting The Big Breakfast in the late 90s, Tonkinson has maintained his friendly, laid back approach and returns here with an hour of inoffensive but well-honed observational comedy.

Completely at home in front of a lively crowd, Tonkinson cleverly uses the entire circumference of his Pleasance stage, breaking the ice with some gentle audience teasing before moving on to the substance of tonight’s set.

Admitedly, Tonkinson’s show, The Anti Mid-Life Crisis, does not represent the most original subject-matter and generally revolves around snippets of the Yorkshireman’s life: his dog, his kids, his love for football, even his frighteningly prominent hernia which he proudly parades to the unassuming front row. But its perfect Friday-night fare: entertaining and well-thought out – and Tonkinson’s wonderfully expressive face capable of conjuring a host of characters that bustle for space in his busy act.

Tonkinson is regularly booked to play for the armed forces and was the first comic to perform in Iraq after the Saddam was toppled. It’s easy to see why. Likeable in an unmistakeably English way, his comedy is effortless and charming all at the same time.