Staff at a care home in Alton have congratulated their resident comic for taking centre stage on International Joke Day.

Alan Newman should stand up and take a bow after treating staff and residents at The Lawn to his comic genius.

International Joke Day was reputedly started by a group of comedians in the 1950s to encourage people to share jokes, spread happiness and enjoy the joy of laughter.

So when figures at the Friends of the Elderly-run home decided to mark the occasion, they knew who to ask.

“Alan always has a funny story or joke to tell and loves to make anyone and everyone smile” said Emma Cranstone, activities co-ordinator.

Alan had everyone in stitches after pulling out some “oldies, but goodies” with his routine including everything from slapstick to knock-knock classics.

“I love telling jokes and limericks,” said Alan, who has been a resident at The Lawn since August 2023.