Comedian Lucy Porter prefers to stand back from the debate about why there are fewer women than men in the business - and just who is the funniest.

Comedian Lucy Porter prefers to stand back from the debate about why there are fewer women than men in the business - and just who is the funniest.

The comedian, who will be appearing at the Norwich Playhouse on March 26, said she has never felt hampered by gender.

'I don't know if it is harder for women than for men - I know it is hard to be funny and to make it, whether you are a man or a woman.

'But I am not someone who tends to compare myself to other people. If I ever found out I was being discriminated against because of gender I would be livid,' she said.

But she acknowledged: 'Perhaps it was harder for women to become comedians a few years ago when there were not so many role models. But I grew up watching Victoria Wood, French and Saunders and Jo Brand so I think it is getting better now.'

Lucy, who is a regular on television comedy shows such as Never Mind the Buzzcocks and Mock the Week, and appeared in Celebrity Mastermind in November, is currently touring with her latest show, Fool's Gold.

In it, she takes her audience on a trip through the history of gold and discusses our obsession with the precious metal.

'I started thinking about it when I saw one of those adverts suggesting you trade your gold for cash,' she said. 'I was intrigued as to why, during times of recession, everyone turns to gold.'

She continued: 'A lot of people did wonder if focusing an entire show on gold was a bit limiting - but there is plenty to say about it that makes the subject entertaining!'

As well as performing and writing, Lucy is also a regular on Radio 4 panel show Act Your Age.

'I love doing that too,' she admitted. 'I get to meet some of the comedians I remember from when I was younger, people like Cannon and Ball, and Tom O'Connor.'

But for now, she said, she is enjoying being out on the road.

'It is fun and I am particularly looking forward to coming to Norwich. I enjoy my shows there,' she said.

'In fact, I think I have performed in Norwich more times than I have in any other British city.'

t Lucy Porter will perform at the Norwich Playhouse on Friday, March 26, at 8pm. For more information or for tickets call 01603 598598 or visit www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk