A stand-up comedian from Ireland was praised yesterday for his “utterly delightful” routine packed with “laughter and charm” after winning Britain's most prestigious comedy award.

David O'Doherty took the £8,000 top prize in the Intelligent Finance Comedy Awards for his show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Nica Burns, director of the awards, said: “After one of the longest, most animated debates, the panel finally chose from this very strong shortlist a comedian whose work can only be summed up as utterly delightful. An hour with David O'Doherty fills the world with laughter and charm and sends you home on a wave of happiness.”

The losing nominees were Kristen Schaal and Kurt Braunohler, Rhod Gilbert and Russell Kane.

“All four nominees presented shows which combined outstanding material and performance,” said Ms Burns. “They could not have been more different from each other and are all well on their way to being household names.”

The £4,000 prize for best newcomer went to Sarah Millican, praised by judges as an outstanding stand-up who delivers “an evening of laughs”.

The awards were presented by Clive James, the veteran writer and broadcaster, and last year's winner Brendon Burns at the Jam House in Edinburgh.

O'Doherty won Channel 4's So You Think You're Funny award for new comedians in 1999 and was runner-up in the BBC New Comedy Awards. His Fringe show ranges from dry observations to manic storytelling, with the occasional interlude on a small, portable keyboard.

Previous winners of the award, which was formerly sponsored by Perrier, include Steve Coogan and Frank Skinner.

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