Robbie Dale considers cow pat bingo and other comic innovations.

THE first time I ever travelled South from my beloved Glasgow homestead to visit this fine city, I was part of a small contingent from my school's combined Cadet Force RAF section.

Aside from an abiding memory of being offered mind-altering drugs at York station, the point of our visit was to attend a weekend of leadership training at RAF Linton-on-Ouse.

On browsing this weekend's exciting events, I noted with glee a mention of the Linton-on-Ouse village festival on Saturday. Sadly, I won't be reliving my visit because I'll be in Glasgow, but if a scarecrow competition and the promise of 'cow pat bingo' (I don't know either) doesn't float your boat, then you must be truly lost in life.

This weekend also sees the end of the second York Comedy Festival with a chance to see top comedians performing at venues around the city. Particular highlights over the weekend must be the appearance of Dave Spikey on Friday, whose performances as Jerry St. Clair in Phoenix Nights have made him a success across the board.

Also on Friday, Priorite a Gauche, popular at comedy and arts festivals worldwide, appear at City Screen, York.

The last day of the festival is tomorrow and features the final of The National Talent Hunt, which takes place in Harkers in St Helen's Square. Presented by Donna McPhail and bringing together, well national talent, the final promises to have weeded out those with any joke that starts 'I'm not saying my mother-in-law is fat but...' and showcases tomorrow's potential stars.

A final favourite, from a student point of view, is the appearance of Duncan Oakley playing The Independent on Haxby Road tomorrow night. Always popular at campus comedy nights, Oakley's musical comedy is exactly what the over-taught masses need at the end of a long term - you won't be disappointed.

Top comedy in York - take advantage while you can.

Updated: 16:13 Thursday, June 10, 2004