THE pop-eyed, shock-haired Milton Jones is coming to Taunton to headline a new comedy festival a week on Sunday.

Famous for his remorseless wordplay and witty one-liners, as well as numerous appearances on BBC’s Mock the Week, Milton is taking time out from his UK tour to support the event.

The comedian, who is expected to wear one of his trademark colourful shirts for his first-ever gig in Taunton, told LAURA BARTON about the event:

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOUR STAND-UP SHOW AND WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE OTHER COMEDIANS IN THE LINE-UP?

Do not come if you don't like jokes. Not jokes that will change your life or your political views. Just stupid ones. Stupid, stupid, stupid. No-one booked will not be funny. Unlike music you cannot fool people with stand-up comedy. People either laugh at you or they don't.

WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND YOUR FIRST FLOWERY SHIRT AND HOW MANY DO YOU NOW OWN? 

Having a stupid shirt and hairstyle gives people something to laugh at even if they don't get the joke. I only have one shirt though. Each time I recolour it with felt pens.

WHO OR WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH OUT LOUD?

People falling over and traffic wardens trying to get their scooters out of skips.

HAS YOUR MIND EVER GONE BLANK WHEN YOU’RE IN THE MIDDLE OF A SHOW?

Several times during every show. This is why I wear the shirt.

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU DID YOUR FIRST GIG? HOW DID YOU GET INTO IT?

26. Desperation.

WHAT’S YOUR PRE-GIG RITUAL?

Step on stage and pick up microphone.

DO YOU HAVE ANY SILLY LITTLE SUPERSTITIONS YOU HAVE TO DO TO MAKE THINGS GO WELL?

Always complete the punchlines!

Taunton Comedy Festival, which will be held in a huge marquee at Taunton School, is raising money for Freewheelers, a charity which provides free out-of-hours motorcycle courier service to hospitals in the South-West.

Tickets for the festival, on Sunday, June 23, are now available, priced at £20. To book yours email tauntoncomedyfestival@yahoo.co.uk