Leo Kearse wins Scottish Comedian of the Year 2017

Now in its 12th year, the annual Scottish Comedian of the Year Final took place in both a new home and new comedy club, the recently opened Rotunda in Glasgow. Open to Scottish and Scotland-based stand-ups, the line-up included French comedian Sébastien Dall’Ozzo alongside reigning champion Rosco McClelland and former winner Jamie Dalgliesh. 

Leo Kearse distinctive voice made him a clear winner on the night, however. Championing Margaret Thatcher wouldn't be difficult in front of a Lincolnshire crowd, but in Glasgow it's a tricky path to follow, but Kearse proved himself able to do so with strong punchlines. This isn't the first trophy the London-based comedian has in his cabinet: in 2015 he won the Pun Championship at Leciester Comedy Festival. 

Finishing third and second respectively were two promising young comedians Stuart McPherson and Stephen Buchanan. 

As Scottish Comedian of the Year, Kearse collects £1000 and the opportunity to perform at the Adelaide Fringe Festival in Australia.