A SUCCESSFUL charity comedy night is back for a laugh for the third year running.

The Fed, which runs Heathlands Village Care Home, first staged the Laughter Factor event in 2013 and it proved a rip-roaring success, as did last year's show.

A group of volunteers undergo 12 weeks of comedy training courtesy of Prestwich funnyman Ashley Boroda and then each perform a five-minute stand-up routine in front of 400 guests at the Comedy Store in Manchester.

The laughter night takes place this Sunday and the seven entertainers have been busy making final preparations.

One of them is David Ross, a volunteer at the Headway charity shop in Prestwich Village.

The 49-year-old, from Salford, said: "My friends say I'm quick-witted and have a good sense of humour so they suggested I sign up and I took the plunge this year.

"The tuition has been great fun and I'm determined to go out there and enjoy the big event.

"I might never get the chance to do it again so, as they say, make hay while the sun shines."

Edward Moss, aged 58, of Park Street, Prestwich, has an advantage ahead of the performance as he gives presentations in his role as a communications officer and he also done pantomime.

He said: "I helped a friend who was taking part last year and she said that, because I have a tendency to vent in a funny way on Facebook, the Laughter Factor would be perfect for me.

"The rehearsals have been a phenomenal learning curve. Ashley teaches you something new every time."

David Mort, aged 67, from Gatley, is a former student of Stand Grammar School and used to live in Prestwich.

His wife Linda died of cancer in 2013.

The retired teacher said: "Last year's Laughter Factor was my first social outing since her death. It really took me out of myself and I enjoyed it.

"I volunteered for it this year and am really looking forward to it."

Also taking to the stage will be 64-year-old social worker Ian Stern, 34-year-old estate agent David Mintz, 46-year-old mechanical engineer Matt Corker and 37-year-old solicitor Daniel Berke. All seven performers are collecting donations via thefed.org.uk/donate/fundraisers

Sunday's show starts at 6.45pm and tickets cost £15. For more details: call 0161 772 4967 or e-mail zoe.s@thefed.org.uk