Live comedy airs on BBC’s ‘red button’ channel

The BBC3 Comedy Marathon will feature more than 40 acts appearing at the festival, with presenters including Radio 1’s Jameela Jamil.

Viewers will be encouraged to send tweets that will be included during the broadcast, which starts at 9pm on Friday.

The live performances will aired on the “red button” channel with a highlights show airing on BBC3 later in the month.

Executive producer Will Saunders said: “This is the Edinburgh Fringe, as you should see it, late, live and full of surprises.”

Performers will include Janey Godley, Jimeoin, Nina Conti and Paul Foot.