FUNNYMAN John Bishop dropped into a Chester club to give fans a surprise sneak preview of his forthcoming national tour.

The Liverpool funnyman – who recently took part in a Week of Hell for Sport Relief when he cycled, rowed and ran from Paris to London – did a quick 20 minute set at The Laugh Inn in Station Road on Saturday.

He was not the only famous face present as he was greeted by fellow comedy star Jason Manford, one of the owners of the Chester venue.

After his performance, Bishop was treated to a standing ovation from the city audience.

He then spent the evening chatting with fans and posing for photographs much to the delight of those who had come for what they had expected to be a regular Saturday night at The Laugh Inn.

Jason Manford also spent time with fans signing autographs and taking pictures.

The Laugh Inn is becoming one of the most prestigious comedy venues on the North West circuit. The club will welcome Michael McIntyre and Russell Kane in the next few weeks, and John Bishop will be returning to Chester to perform a full show there in June.