It's a good job it was a comedy festival.
People enjoying a whacky tour of Bath saw the funny side when a brand new London Routemaster bus broke down in the middle of the city.
The Easter Sunday White Wine Arts Trail was one of the attractions at the Bath Comedy Festival, which is in its fifth year.
The bus - loaned to organisers by Transport for London, whose boss Sir Peter Hendy lives in Widcombe - broke down in Great Pulteney Street.
Festival director Nick Steel said: "The saddest sight was the bus with its broken power steering, abandoned on Pulteney Street. The 76 passengers completed the tour on foot in the spirit of adventure."
Simon Wynne, who was on the trail, added: "I still had a really good time on the bus/walking tour."
Mr Steel said the festival was proving the most successful yet and had got off to a flying start with a packed opening show.
The festival - running until Sunday - has blended national acts such as Celebrity Mastermind winner, Simon Evans, with local talent.
The self-styled German ambassador for comedy, Henning Wehn, has been a sell-out, and Mr Steel added: "Intelligent, insightful, inspiring comedy in friendly rooms, is the best live experience going."
A record number of people entered the New Act Competition, which showcases up and coming comedic talent. Entrants are split into five heats and battle to reach Saturday's grand final at Bath Cricket Club.
Some festival goers have questioned the male dominated line-up.
Dino Goldie said: "My only criticism is where were all the funny women? Where are the mid-level Miranda Harts and Sarah Millicans? There is a huge void."
Mr Steel said he was happy with the balance and believes the festival has improved.
He said: "It was true of the first festivals but not now. There are events especially aimed at females, such as Funny Women at Chapel Arts Centre, as well as visiting artistes like Janice Phayre."
Many of the national acts use Bath as an early warm-up for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
Mr Steel said: "Apart from the plethora of interesting and unique venues, the performers regard Bath as a holiday. Especially now the sun has come out!"
Details are at bathcomedy.com.
