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Comedy on tap
HE takes inspiration in everything from children's programme Newsround to hair straighteners for his gags.
Student Ric Wharton's comic repertoire certainly impressed judges at London's famous Comedy Store.
The 20-year-old, who attends Southampton Solent University, has been crowned Paramount's Comedy On Tap Funniest Student 2008.
It's a case of second time lucky for the university after another of its students, Hannah George, walked away with the accolade last year.
Ric's prize winning set, including his own version of Celebrity Big Brother called You've Been Stalked, dazzled the judges. The first year comedy student said it was a childhood dream come true to become an award-winning comedian.
"I think Jack Dee was the first comedian I ever saw on telly. I was in Year 4 at school at the time, my older brother brought it home for me to watch and I've been influenced ever since.
"At school I was always a bit of a class clown but I worked hard at my exams and always wanted to become a comedian."
With his first live performance in his hometown of Newcastle, Ric has now notched up an impressive 32 stand-up gigs - including regular appearances at Southampton's Soul Cellar.
It comes as little surprise that Ric didn't think twice about signing up to Solent's comedy degree. "When I found out that I could go to university to study comedy it was an absolute dream.
"The degree has helped me to gain confidence and stage presence.
"Winning the competition has given me a real boost and some great opportunities."
Comedy course leader Chris Ritchie said: "Ric is an incredibly promising student. He is a natural performer who has a lot of charm."
9:48am Thursday 27th March 2008
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