From 9–15 June, Hastings was bursting with energy andlaughter for the 10th annual Hastings Comedy Festival, sponsored by Lightning Fibre.
With more than 90 shows across 14 iconic local venues- including The Good Place, The Piper, White Rock Studio, and the Observer Building - the festival delivered a packed programme of stand-up, sketch, improv, and family-friendly fun with rave reviews.
Headline acts included Seann Walsh, Ria Lina, Robin Ince, Arthur Smith, Jessica Fostekew, and Alasdair Beckett‑King, while homegrown talent like Hastings’ own Taz Long and Sam Willett also took to the stage.
Spotlight on the Norman Award – Newcomer of the Year
One of the most exciting moments of the festival came on Saturday14th June, with the presentation of the Norman Award for Newcomer of the Year at The Piper. This award celebrates emerging comedy talent, and this year’s winner was the hugely promising Oliver Moore.
Oliver wowed audiences and judges alike with his performance and will return to the 2026 festival as part of the pro line-up. Abbie Edwards and Josh Sedman secured well deserved runner up positions - both delivering standout sets that had the crowds in stitches. This award continues to spotlight future stars, and we’re excited to see where their comedy journey takes them next.
Fun Night Out
Emma, Ryan and Rob from Lightning Fibre also really enjoyed different shows with their friends:
· the brilliant stand-up storytelling of Josephine Lacy (despite the booming thunder and lightning!)
· the outrageously funny President Obonjo - what a force he is!
· and comedian ventriloquist Max Fulham – who is off to the Edinburgh Fringe at the end of July!
Nick from the Lightning Fibre team attended Twidow Wankey’s Dirty Panto on Saturday evening at the East Hastings Angling Club. He described it as “a fantastic evening, full of laughs and plenty of naughty jokes.”
In classic festival fashion, Nick was even pulled up on stage. When he revealed he worked for Lightning Fibre, Nick was treated to a chorus of local cheers!
Lightning Fibre: Supporting Laughter and Local Life
As the headline sponsor for the fourth year in a row, we’re thrilled to continue supporting this unique and independent event.
We absolutely believe in investing in the creativity and energy of the communities we serve.
Rob Reaks, Lightning Fibre’s Chief Commercial Officer, commented: “We are delighted to have been headline sponsor again, and to help the festival celebrate its 10th anniversary. A huge well done to co-founders Chris Young and Jake Alexander. The line-up and attendance this year was superb, no wonder this festival has achieved international awards!”
More Than Just Broadband
If you enjoyed the festival and want to find out more about what we do, we’d love to hear from you. Our friendly local team is here to help:
- Call us: 01323 380260 (8 am – 8 pm daily)
- Visit: Our shop at the Enterprise Shopping Centre, Eastbourne (9 am – 5 pm, Mon – Fri)
- Check availability: Use the postcode checker on our website
- For business broadband: Email business@lightningfibre.co.uk
