On Friday 17th July, comedian Rachel Baker was in role as her alter-ego Gwen became the Queen of bingo.
Gwen ate up the laughs all the way to the top, pipping fellow grand finalists Tara Boland as Dusty Creases and Paul Aitchison as Klaus Fantastiche to the post. Not only did she win the accolade of a 12-month residency at Dabbers Social Bingo, including a regular hosting slot during Dabbers Brunch Club, she also took home £1,500 in cash which Gwen said she would spend on her “erotic Gnome collection”.
On the win, Rachel said:
‘With such fierce and creative competition I am honoured that Gwen won, it’s been so fun to try out new songs and dances in all the different rounds and Gwen has learned a lot throughout the process. It’s been a joy bringing Gwen to a new crowd.
Thanks to Dabbers and Jonny for making it possible, excited to be part of the team.’
Dabbers MD Jonny Unknown added:
“This girl’s got that magic dust. Rachel AKA Gwen owned the room. Some performers are simply made for the stage, and she lit it up from the moment she walked on.
Naturally funny, effortlessly charismatic, and impossible to take your eyes off.”
Gwen, the New Queen of Bingo
Aside from appearing on BBC Radio 4, Rachel Baker was a finalist in the Sketch Off Awards 2025 and winner of the Luke Rollason Character Bursary, plus a Big Value Act 2026, Funny Women Finalist and Birmingham Breaking Talent nominee. This August she’s taking Gwen from Dabbers in London to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with her show Rachel Baker Presents: Gwen – This is Not a Pyramid Scheme.
Judges’ Favourite Award Winner
The Judges’ Favourite award went to Nerine Skinner performing as Sadie the Motivator. Nerine said:
“I’m really grateful to have won the judges’ vote. I’d never hosted bingo before this competition, and to be recognised for my hosting skills and my work as a character comedian by industry professionals is something I’m really proud of.”
The Grand Final was held at Dabbers Bingo in East London, known as Dabbers City, where you can enjoy other bingo events like Bollywood Bingo, Bottomless Bubbles Brunch, Pick N Mix Bingo, and even Family Brunch Bingo. The final event was hosted by Katie Pritchard.
A Big Win for Bingo
Events like the Dabbers Bingo Comedy Caller Contest prove why bingo is still a popular night out, or day out in Dabbers’ case. Dabbers Bingo has built an in real life experience that has cut through the heart of London, combining the fun of live entertainment with the classic game, pulling in audiences who might not have considered playing themed bingo.
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