The founder of the Bath Comedy Festival in the West Country Life spotlight

A lex Timms believes the first Bath Comedy Festival could pull in an extra 10,000 visitors to the city.

The Bath businessman, who spent much of his youth watching comedians at festivals in Edinburgh, now wants to bring comedy to Bath.

He has signed up a host of big names, including Paul Merton, Jenny Eclair and long-time Ricky Gervais collaborator Robin Ince, for the 12-day event.

He says: "Our dream has been to bring the beautiful World Heritage City of Bath to life with a colourful, vibrant, inclusive and dedicated mix of comedy – in all its many guises.

"With leading headline acts, cutting edge stand-up, some of the best in performance comedy, classic funny films, controversial cartoons and award-winning street theatre, the inaugural Bath Comedy Festival will be a celebration of the art of making people laugh."

What do you love about the West Country?

The rich diversity of culture, and especially the exciting arts to be found in Bath.

When and where were you happiest?

When I met my wife Kate. We were both working in advertising agencies in London.

What is your earliest memory?

Playing in the bath with my younger brother Matthew.

What makes you laugh?

Old friends from Sevenoaks, where I went to school. We always end up impersonating our teachers.

What do you dream of?

Sailing off into the sunset in a beautiful yacht with my family on board.

What is your greatest fear?

My children getting hurt.

Which person, living or dead, do you most admire?

Nelson Mandela, because he had the strength to forgive.

What is your worst habit?

Embarassing my children trying to crack jokes.

What is your favourite book?

Grumpy Old Men; it had me in stitches.

What possession could you not live without?

Kate, my wife (I may get a kick for that!).

What is your greatest frustration?

Not being able to sail more.

What is your favourite word?

Serendipity.

What is your favourite food and drink?

Anything cooked by Kate – she trained as a chef and spoils me rotten! And Bath Ales have brewed a special beer called Fools in celebration of the first Bath Comedy Festival and it's delicious.

Who or what is the love of your life?

My friends and family; they mean the world to me.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Kate, some of my best friends and perhaps George Clooney and Goldie Hawn, to add a bit of razzmatazz.

What law would you introduce if you were in charge?

I would create a new bank holiday on April Fools Day to celebrate the benefits of laughter.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

Gordon Brown to resign.

What is your greatest achievement?

My family – although Kate deserves the credit.

What talent to you wish you had?

I wish I was funny and my wife wishes I could dance!

How would you like to be remembered?

Not as a grumpy old man!

The festival runs from April Fools Day (April 1) to April 12. For further information, visit www.bathcomedyfestival.co.uk or email fun@bathcomedyfestival.co.uk. Tel: 01225 463362.