�Everyone likes to think they have a sense of humour – and most claim to have at least one absolute corker of a joke in their locker.

Now one charitable soul could discover just how funny the people of Islington really are with his latest fundraising escapade.

Marathon runner Matthew Bull, 39, is hoping to bring together the ultimate collection of Islington quips by asking residents for their funniest lines – all in the name of charity.

Funnies

Matthew, of Morgan Road, Holloway, said: “It just struck me how many people have a great joke that they could share with a wider audience.

“I think the people of Islington are sitting on some crackers. There are probably 20,000 jokes out there and it will be a real pleasure to pick the best. We will have a judging panel and hopefully we can put together a very high quality book.”

Matthew, a youth worker at the Highbury Roundhouse, is running the London Marathon on April 22 in aid of Centre 404 in Camden Road, Holloway.

He hopes to publish the borough’s funniest side-splitters in book form to raise cash for the learning disability charity.

“I’m really keen for all the primary schools to get involved,” he added. “I’m going to call round to the schools with posters and every school that submits 100 jokes will get a dedicated page.

“But everyone is welcome to contribute – whether teachers, judges or market stall owners.”

Writer Edward Phillips, of Pyrland Road, Highbury, who has compiled 14 joke books, said: “I think it’s a good idea and I wish him all the luck.

“I always welcome any new joke book because they’re not published in quite such large amounts as they used to be.”

Matthew hopes to raise �2,000 from the book – he is asking for 20p for every joke entry – and is organising a host of other events, including Sunday roasts, a group head-shave and quirky walking tours.

n Call 07985 461 403 or visit www.charitygiving.co.uk/matthewbull to donate 20p or more and submit your joke.