FUNNYMAN Andy Smith could soon have the nation in fits of laughter after winning a spot in the final of one of the country's most prestigious comedy contests.

The 34-year-old is one of eight acts to make it to the final of Manchester's City Life Comedian of the Year competition later this month, just four months after he began his stand-up career.

The care worker, from Little Lever, wowed judges with his routine and beat ten other acts to secure a place in the final.

And if he wins, Andy, of Newmarket Road, Little Lever, will be in good company -- the contest launched the careers of Bolton funnymen Peter Kay, Dave Spikey and Justin Moorhouse.

Andy's material offers a wry view of life, with a mix of tales from his childhood, one-liners and clever wordplay.

The act has been described as "sublime but silly," and reviews of the performance have summed it up as "class".

Andy was inspired to try his hand at stand-up comedy after watching live performances from Peter Kay and Dave Spikey.

He quickly honed his skills at The Frog and Bucket in Manchester during open-microphone nights.

And just 17 appearances later, including spots at Bolton's Albert Halls and the Octagon, he will perform to an audience of more than 400 at Manchester's Comedy Store in the City Life contest on October 31.

Bosses at the Frog and Bucket have been so impressed with Andy that they have snapped him up and offered him a management deal.

Andy said: "I know that it's all come very quickly, but I'm trying to take it all as it comes.

"I'm hopeful for the final, but I'll be up against people who have been doing this for years, who have more experience, so I'm not pinning my hopes on it.

"I just appreciate the fact that I've made it so far, but obviously a win would be fantastic."

Andy hopes his career will eventually progress into television and radio appearances, as well as live shows.