A Worcester-based comedian has become the first transgender winner of a prestigious comedy award.
Willow Marler was crowned this year's Comedy Bloomers LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year.
The comic was awarded the title and cash prize after impressing a panel of celebrity comedian judges at London’s Comedy Store.
The judges included Chloe Petts, Tia Kofi, James Barr, and Josh Jones, all of whom were impressed by Willow’s commanding stage presence and perfectly timed punchlines.
Willow’s set covered a range of topics, from coming out to exploring laser hair removal, misgendering, name changes, and 'Woke Cluedo'.
Their performance was lauded for its ability to challenge audience preconceptions, with James Barr saying: "Comedy is at its best when it's a protest and when it's saying something.
"I genuinely believe that comedy is helping us move forward as a society, and Willow’s comedy is doing exactly that."
Reflecting on the win, Willow said: "It's not easy being trans, particularly at a time when we're being silenced, marginalised, and subjected to so much hatred.
"But the one thing I love about comedy is that I get to have a mic, I get to be on stage, and people just have to listen to me talking about being trans."
The competition, now in its fifth year, attracted more than 140 entries from comedians across the country.
It is the UK's only dedicated showcase of its kind, offering emerging queer comedians a platform to develop their material and reach wider audiences.
Chris Smith, founder of Comedy Bloomers, said: "Willow winning this year's contest really demonstrates just how far LGBTQ+ comedy has come.
"She is a shining example of someone who has embraced her experiences as a transgender person, overcome huge challenges and emerged stronger, more confident, and funnier.
"She's not only a brilliant comedian, but also someone who has the courage to stand up, be a visible face of our community and share her experiences with honesty, humour and vulnerability."
New for this year, Comedy Bloomers’ YouTube channel will host all of this year's Grand Final performances for free.
The competition also raises funds for charity partner Rainbow Migration.
LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2026 will be available to watch from November 21.
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