Comedian Stephen K Amos has faced personal tragedy in the last 18 months so his new show, Bouquets and Brickbats, has a brutal honesty.

Losing his twin sister felt like a blow too far for Stephen, who had never before suffered from panic attacks or anxiety. and was certainly not known for wallowing in sadnessThe devastation threatened to overwhelm the comedian, who said he just wanted to hide, but he pulled himself back from the brink.

“I was in Australia and flew back six hours too late. It was the final run of my show and afterwards I couldn’t speak, but in a weird way I want this new show to honour her and another family friend I lost. It is definitely my most personal show. I have been grieving and this is a reflection on my personal brickbats,’’ he said. “Bouquets are flowers you throw at weddings, so they are happy, but life also throws us curve balls which are the brickbats.’’

Despite all that has personally happened to Stephen and all that is going on in the world, including Trump and Brexit, the comedian says he made his show light hearted, as everyone is fed up with all the doom and gloom. Bouquets and Brickbats will be stopping off at the Swindon Arts Centre, Devizes Road, Old Town on Thursday, November 8.

Stephen is known for his strong political views, and has been a guest on shows such as Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week and The Wright Stuff. “I am very interested in current affairs and knowing what is going on. We have to weave stuff into the live show. It keeps us on our toes.’’

The comedian was invited to take part in TV’s Great British Bake Off. “My mum was an amazing cook but I can only do spag bol, but on that show I learned that cooking chocolate needs sugar as it is bitter.’’

The comedian agreed to play Nelson Mandela in a Sports Relief programme when the England Rugby Squad were playing in South Africa. “I certainly wasn’t playing rugby,’’ said Stephen “I am the least sporty person.’’

The comedian also took part in Celebrity Mastermind for Children In Need and chose the group Five Star as his specialist subject. “I did it for a laugh and a good cause. I came third,’’ he said.

Stephen had no intention of becoming a comedian when he was growing up in London. He studied criminal justice at the Polytechnic of Central London. It was during a trip to America that he met comedy club owner, Delphine Manley, who told him he was really funny and should have a go. “My whole thing is as long as the audience are enjoying what I do. If through my grief I can reach out and touch someone else that’s special.’’

For tickets to see Stephen call 01793 524481 or visit www.swindontheatres.co.uk. - Flicky Harrison