Billy Connolly has been named the UK's most influential stand-up comic of all time. The Scottish humorist beat the likes of Morecambe and Wise, Peter Cook and Victoria Wood in the poll. US star Robin Williams took top honours for the international comics. Stephen Merchant, Jack Dee, Miranda Hart, Jason Manford and Jo Brand were among 100 comics who compiled a shortlist, which was then put to a public vote. Big Yin Connolly was first, followed by double-act Morecambe and Wise. Victoria Wood was third, and the only woman in the top 10. Eddie Izzard came fourth, followed by Ben Elton, Peter Cook, Les Dawson, Lenny Henry, Sean Lock and Rik Mayall in 10th place. Steve North, head of TV channel Dave, which commissioned the poll, said: "British stand-up is there with the best in the world... It is great to see trailblazing stand-ups such as Billy Connolly and Robin Williams get the respect they deserve. "Both Connolly and Williams have consistently pushed the comedy envelope and whilst they may have over 40 years of experience between them, they are still the funniest men on the planet." A total of 2,000 adults took part in the poll, commissioned by TV channel Dave to mark Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival in February.
