Harriet Dyer has been revealed as the winner of this year’s Channel 4 Sean Lock Comedy Award.
Now in its second year, the competition took place at Project House in Leeds, hosted by comedian, Joe Wilkinson.
The award is designed to showcase talented new writers and performers who embody the alternative comedic spirit of Sean Lock and Channel 4.
“Harriet’s mind is amazing. What a kick to see 300 people united in laughter about a hedgehog that comes through your letterbox to let you know the internet guy is at the front door,” said Charlie Perkins, Head of Comedy at Channel 4.
“Such a singular voice, and so reminiscent of Sean’s ability to make the surreal universal. Congratulations to Harriet and well done to all of our finalists- the standard was incredible. The future is very very bright for all of them.”
Dyer will receive £5,000 to support her live work as well as a script commission from Channel 4’s Comedy team and paid writing experience across Channel 4’s comedy Entertainment and Digital departments.
A full-time comedian since 2013, she’s performed a number of solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe and is resident MC at ROFL Comedy Club in Sheffield and at the award-winning mental health comedy night, Barking Tales, which she founded in Manchester.
“When I was young, I was always sad because nothing really happened to me but now, I’m older, I’ve got so much stuff to mention in my comedy,” she explained.
“So, comedy has changed my life really… because I’m unemployable everywhere else! It’s the only thing I haven’t been banished from yet. It’s great that I can be myself and fit in somewhere.”
Damon Pettitt from Off The Kerb and Sean’s former agent added:
“Good luck to the worthy winner. It was an incredibly high standard on the night; the future of comedy looks in great shape. Thanks again to Channel 4 for this incredibly generous bursary.”
