Former cop Alfie Moore reckons being a police officer has some similarities to being a comedian.

“As a cop I have learned how to remain calm under pressure,” he says.

“And stepping on to a stage without a stab vest can be terrifying! Being a police officer and stand-up are not too dissimilar as cops use humour on the streets every day to help calm potentially volatile situations. The most useful tool for any police officer is their communication skill.”

Alfie is bringing his show Getting Away with Murder to the Swindon Art Centre tomorrow night at 8pm. The former detective sergeant and star of BBC Radio 4 comedy It’s A Fair Cop will take you on a thrilling interactive journey through the art and science of murder investigation.

The audience will experience how it feels to be part of planning the perfect murder - from choosing the weapon to disposing of the body.

“I would describe the show as a mix of fascinating murder facts, some famous historical cases and cases I’ve personally been involved in,” he says. “I’ll be asking, what makes a murderer and why do some people get away with it and others don’t? Its definitely a stand-up show with a large dash (quite literally) of police gallows humour.”

And is it right for a cop to seem to be making fun of such serious subject matter?

“Why not? Humour is a very powerful tool that can be used to make serious points. It’s often said the comedy is the last bastion of free speech and I feel fortunate that even as a cop I’m allowed to flex my satirical muscles. I think it’s a positive thing and a healthy reflection of our society and, to be honest, I have an awful lot to say!”

Alfie entered a stand-up competition for new acts in 2007, and says he was instantly hooked by performing.

As well as working as a police officer, he had a job working with animals.

“My first job (somewhat ironically) was on a pig farm - I lasted four days until they started to castrate the boars,” he recalls.

He remembers the worst piece of advice he was ever given: “After one of my early gigs someone genuinely tried to offer helpful advice by saying, ‘Why don’t you try being a bit funnier?’ I just replied, ‘that’s a good idea.’”

Tickets are £14.50. To book, call 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk.