Performing at a packed Glee Club on Thursday 10th October, Tom was presented the award by judging panel representative Steve Bennett, from comedy news website Chortle, and compère James Cook.

Born and raised in Hall Green, Tom Towelling cut his teeth in various sketch troupes at university before forming a double-act, The Good Kids, with pal Kieran Flynn. Since 2023, Tom’s focused on developing his solo career at nights such as Eric Rushton’s Deep Fried Comedy in Moseley.

In a stand-out performance, the award’s Judging Panel were impressed by Tom’s showmanship, unpredictability and some impressive musical segments – including a surprising rendition of the National Anthem!

Birmingham Comedy Festival Breaking Talent Award 2024

“I’m really grateful for the award, I’m so chuffed. Birmingham Comedy Festival has been such a massive part of my comedy journey; it provides an opportunity to take risks and a forum for comedians … it’s been such a gift.”

Discussing his plans, Tom, who works in education, added: “I would like to work this material into an hour long show which I could take around to other festivals then, in a few years, up to The Fringe [in Edinburgh].”

An admirer of John Kearns, Lara Ricote, Daniel Kitson and Natalie Palamides, Tom sees his comedy as playful. “I like to think of what I do as ‘playing’.”

Meanwhile, Dom Bant, from Chelmsley Wood and now a resident of Coleshill, was praised for his confidence and strength of material and Commended by Judges. Describing himself as a “38-year-old pole dancer,” the deadpan comic’s set explored his relationship with his child, pondered signs for swingers, and looked at his favourite TV advert.

Dom’s commendation was only the third issued by the judging panel in the award’s ten year history.

Also competing for the award were three other West Midlands acts.

Rich Spalding declared he was a cautious man and “late bloomer” who touched on his relationship with billionaires; Gareth Williams voiced concerns about turning 30 and recalled incidents with pets, as well as the challenges of quitting smoking; and Lin Smith confessed to being “a terrible lesbian” and pondered the challenges of corporate days out.

A spokesperson for Birmingham Comedy Festival said: “It’s tough to select a winner when the standard of acts coming out of the region is so high, and also so varied. But the judges agreed that Tom’s approach to comedy was exciting, unexpected, buzzing with energy, and showed great potential, making him a worthy winner.

“The Judging Panel also recognised that Dom had a lot to offer too. Delivering a nicely constructed 10 minute set with some unexpected turns, they were keen to ensure he was recognised with a Commendation.”