Just returned from Sheffield arena leg of the tour. I have to say that I am a massive fan. Read all his books, seen all his shows including the early stuff, and if he's ever on tv I always record it. I love him. Very heart warming comedy.

The first thing that got me about this show was how short the first half was. Less than 40 minutes. After a twenty minute interval his second half lasted just under an hour before a 10 minute encore.

Sadly, I would say this was money for old rope. I laughed out loud maybe 3 times, smiled quite a few but I think that as a huge fan I've heard almost all his 'new' stuff in his various appearances and interviews over the last 3/4 years.

Don't get me wrong, I wanted it to be side splittingly funny, and wasn't searching for a disappointment, it's just the guy has come up with some classics over the last 15 years and there were none that haven't been beaten to death by other comics such as Lee Mack, Jason Manford and the like, such as self service tills, sky+ and school reunions.

It's a safe bet that youll feel warm and cosy inside afterwards because he calls upon his nan and family memories from his last few tours to remind you why you liked him in the first place, but there's sadly nothing new.

The encore is good, but a bit of a cheap stunt. A bit like a restaurant where the starter is poor, and the main course is ok, and then the waitress brings out a huge dessert to make you think the whole things been great, the finale and encore make everyone stand to their feet. I felt a little conned, but overall I'd give it 6/10.

I've seen loads of comedians this year, and if he was doing this set in a greasy comedy club at the back of a pub, he'd die on his arse, but maybe that's it? Maybe he feels he has done the build ups and set the foundations that are oh so funny and now he's just developing on the theme. It works but hopefully next time he'll bring a totally new set of gags.

My tip? Go see him if you don't watch everything he does. If you've bought tickets and are a huge fan like me, then don't expect a whole new set of classic memories and nostalgia. I guess he only has so many memories to call upon. Just enjoy it and relax and wallow in the same old gauranteed quips that made you chuckle the first time.