RONNI: SHOWS WANT SHINY NEW WOMEN

Comic unimpressed by sexism in TV industry

MALE comedians are given greater longevity on TV because broadcasters are constantly searching for "shiny new women", according to impressionist Ronni Ancona.

The comic, from Troon, Ayrshire, blasted sexism in the industry and said it's puzzling that men of her generation are regularly used on panel shows while women are overlooked.

Ronni, who made her name alongside Alistair McGowan on BBC's The Big Impression between 2000 and 2004, said it was "very difficult" to speak up without coming across as bitter.