Vegas crowned king of comedy

His act may revolve around his love of beer and pottery but Johnny Vegas has been named the funniest man in Britain.

Vegas, real name Michael Pennington, pipped Brass Eye's Chris Morris and Phoenix Nights' Peter Kay to best male comedian in awards by men's magazine Esquire.

Vegas, who often appears with a pint in one hand and a cigarette in the other, is among the most un-PC performers.

But his stand-up act and guest appearances on chat shows have taken him from being a cult figure to a mainstream hit.

Tim Lewis, of Esquire, said: 'Johnny is the darkest and most brilliant comedian in Britain today.

'His live performances, whether they succeed or fail, always do so spectacularly.'

Morris came second, Kay third and cult cartoonists Jon Link and Mick Bunnage were fourth. Their latest creation is a foulmouthed signwriter called Mr Tourette, which has become a popular e-mail hit.

Little Britain stars Matt Lucas and David Walliams were only 11th, while MP Boris Johnson and Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson also made the list.