COMEDIAN Al Murray has been announced as the headline act for York's new 10-day comedy festival.

Famed for his Pub Landlord act, Al Murray will star on the opening night of The Great Yorkshire Fringe.

The festival, starting on July 24, is the first of its kind and is being held two weeks before the famous Edinburgh Fringe, in the hope of offering a warm-up event for acts.

Al Murray will be performing in the White Rose Rotunda - one of four purpose built venues which will be popping up in Parliament Street and across the city throughout the festival.

Martin Witts, The Great Yorkshire Fringe founder, said "I am delighted to announce Al Murray as the first headline act. He will launch The Great Yorkshire Fringe and get the fun and festivities off to a wonderful start.

"Al’s a comedy legend who has performed sold-out shows to tens of thousands a night across the UK at major arenas including the O2.

"He is sure to be a hot ticket and sell out fast in our intimate 400-seat venue."

Mr Witts said festival organisers have "several other big names in the wings" who will be added to the line-up as the event draws closer.