TV COMEDIAN Lee Hurst has been quizzed by detectives hunting a man who allegedly conned people out of £2,000 by claiming he had booked the comic to appear in the North-East.

Hurst, former star of the hit BBC sports quiz They Think It's All Over, was interviewed by detectives from Sunderland CID hunting comedy club promoter Mark Rough.

Mr Rough, who is believed to be living in Yorkshire, has disappeared, allegedly taking the cash with him.

It is alleged that more than 200 people were conned into handing £10 each to see Hurst and veteran entertainer Bob Monkhouse at The Smugglers pub, Roker, Sunderland.

But the comedian has told police that he was never booked to appear on Wearside.

It is believed he, Bob Monkhouse and fellow comics Peter Kay and Rob Newman are considering legal action against Mr Rough, boss of the Fnrr Fnrr Comedy Club.

Mr Rough had brought a string of would-be comedy stars to appear at The Smugglers. Embarrassed licensees Paul Walsh and Donna Gibson have since broken the news to customers that the comics will not be appearing.

Acting Detective Inspector Michael Hart, of Sunderland CID, said: "Lee Hurst has confirmed he is not coming to the city, and in view of this we are continuing inquiries."