£16k raised by '˜destitute' comedian en route to Edinburgh

A COMEDIAN without a penny to his name has travelled over 600 miles to Edinburgh to raise money for charity.

Comedian Damian Kingsley. Picture: Contributed

Since March, Damian Kingsley has banned himself from using any cash, debit cards or public transport while making his way to the Capital on his 120-gig Knock Knock Tour.

With no shelter, food or transport – or access to a daily shower – the comedian begged, borrowed and asked complete strangers for favours in return for telling jokes.

Gig locations included pubs, parks, a fruit farm – even a granny’s front room.

Along the way Damian asked for donations for Shelter Scotland and he raised more than £16,000, smashing his original target of £7000.

He reached Edinburgh this week and gave a final show at the Voodoo Rooms to raise more funds.

And he will also be performing the Knock Knock show at Bar 50, Cowgate, in August as part of the free festival, with all donations going to Shelter.

Damian said: “I’ve had days where I’ve not eaten and had no idea where my next meal was coming from – or if it was coming at all.

“But it gave me a small insight into what homeless people go through every day of their lives. I’ve been overwhelmed by the public’s generosity and kindness.”