THE new season of comedy nights at the Hereford Courtyard was off to a brilliant start with up-and-coming comics Will Smith and Rob Heeney - the latter finding that gags using modern technology can be seriously damaging to the act.

After a great show of fast one-liners by Heeney, including a look at how the youth of Liverpool were determined to take their city to the top -- of the country's car theft league that is - the comic decided to end with his telephone messages gag.

But things didn't go to plan when the recorded telephone messages were eaten by his Dictaphone, frankly leaving the comedian high and dry. Yet, like a true professional, he rallied quickly and continued with his quickfire hum-our to end on a high note, even if the tape died a death.

Then came Will Smith. Unlike his action hero, streetwise Hollywood namesake, Will takes the guise of a rich public school boy who has matured into a Hugh Grant-type, complete with floppy hair and sports jacket.

From the moment he takes the stage, the ''hooray'' embarks on a whirlwind of fast one-liners looking at life, sex and class differences.

Just when you think this is a man incapable of thinking, let alone saying anything offensive, he hits out with both barrels until you're convinced you are about to die of laughter.

For me the comedy night, which is held every first Friday of the month, is a must. A real bonus is that it comes after the excellent comedy zone at Worcester's Evolution, which takes place every first Thursday of the month, meaning two nights of laughter in one week.

For more information on Hereford Courtyard's comedy nights phone 01432 359252.

For information on the Comedy Zone dates at Evolution, in Lowesmoor, ring 01905 729440.

Guy Whitmore