Russell Kane and Mark Watson are among the big comedy names that have been announced for the this years Laugh In The Park Festival.

Eastern Daily Press: Mark Watson. Picture: SuppliedMark Watson. Picture: Supplied (Image: Archant)

Hosted by the Red Card Comedy Club, the festival is set to turn Chapelfield Gardens into comedy central park when it returns from Thursday, July 27 until Sunday, July 30.

Essex comedian Mr Kane has won multiple awards throughout his career, including an Edinburgh Comedy Award.

He has performed at the Hammersmith Apollo as well as hosting multiple television shows such as Live at the Electric, I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now and Britain Unzipped.

Fellow Apollo performer, award-winning comedian and author Mr Watson will be joining him.

He is known for, among other things, his appearances on panel shows such as Mock the Week and Have I Got News For You.

Another big name joining the festival for the first time is Hal Cruttenden. As seen on the Royal Variety Performance and Live at the Apollo, the comedian has performed at every major international comedy festival.

This year's line-up also includes rap comedy from Abandoman, Eastenders star Terry Alderton, Norfolk-based comedy explorer Tim Fitzhigham, Tiffanny Stevenson, David Morgan, Jonny and the Baptists, Ian Stone, Ninia Bejamin, Sean Collins, John Mann, Jeff Innocent and The Noise Next Door.

Organisers say the festival has become a focal point in Norwich's summer of arts and culture programme.

The festival often brings big names in comedy to the park, with Andy Parsons performing last year alongside Stephen K Amos.

The line-up release comes as part of a host of comedy events over the summer, with performances from Reginald D Hunter on June 4 at the Theatre Royal, Russell Brand on June 19 and Katy Brand on June 20.

Gates open from 6pm with a bar and food on offer. Shows start at 8pm.

Tickets are available from the Red Card Comedy Site and the University of East Anglia box office on 01603 508050 or online here.