Laughter was certainly the best medicine on Thursday evening as 10 participants of a Liverpool FC Foundation men's health programme were given the chance to take to the comedy stage.

In partnership with Laughterhouse Comedy, the group from a recent eight-week men's health programme were invited to take part in the foundation's 'Take a Stand' comedy confidence course.

With funding from the People's Postcode Trust, the participants were taught by professional comedians to write material, develop a stage presence and deliver a joke - thereby boosting communication skills, self-esteem and confidence.

After just four weeks of training, Matt Hanlon, Nick Hatton, Matt Moreton, Glynn Parker, Darren Partington and Stephen Williams all performed in front of more than 80 people at the Slaughterhouse last night.

With support and mentoring from Dave Dowling, who attended the same course 12 months ago, the six amateur comedians inspired a positive response from each other and the audience.

"It was an amazing experience, with great support from those involved," said Partington. "I would recommend it to anyone who fancies a go at being a stand-up comedian."

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To find out more regarding the work of the Liverpool FC Foundation, visit the dedicated website or follow @LFCFoundation on Twitter.