A COMPILATION of comedy clips is to be released on DVD to raise money for the Asian tsunami disaster appeal.

It will include highlights from stand-up, television and feature films. Stars and programmes featured will include Ricky Gervais, Little Britain, Richard Pryor, Monty Python, Wallace and Gromit, Joe Pasquale, Bo Selecta and Phoenix Nights.

It is hoped that the DVD, The Best Comedy DVD in the World, will raise at least £1m.

It is expected to go on sale in the first week of February, with all profits going to the Unicef children's organisation.

All clips will be given free by UK video labels.

Unicef is working to help children return to school in countries such as Sri Lanka and Indonesia hit by the disaster.

David Bull, executive director of Unicef UK, said: "The tsunami emergency is no laughing matter.

"But that doesn't mean we can't have a laugh to raise money for the work being done across the region for children affected by the disaster.

"Unicef is overwhelmed by the support coming from so many people.

"We're thrilled that those with the ability to make us laugh are allowing us to do so for such a seriously good cause."

The DVD is the brainchild of independent label Revolver Entertainment. Design companies, video editors, production companies and media owners have pitched in to offer their free support.

Revolver managing director Justin Marciano said: "Such co-operation between the video industry's major players is simply unprecedented. We are overwhelmed by the fantastic response we've had."

A release date for the DVD has not yet been set, but it is planned to cost £9.99.

At least £4 of the price is to go to Unicef - and more if organisers manage to persuade the Treasury to waive VAT on sales.

THE dress worn by celebrity model Nell McAndrew at her wedding is set to pull in thousands for the tsunami appeal.

An eBay auction featuring the stunning gown is due to end tomorrow, shortly before 9pm.

Last night bids had reached up to £3,400.

Nell, 31, donated the Jenny Parkham white silk full-length wedding dress with embedded crystals after wearing it at her Dubai nuptials.

She flew family and friends out for the blessing after earlier marrying property developer Paul Hardcastle, 35, in a low-key ceremony at St Philip's Church, Birchencliffe.

The couple are pictured (left) on the eBay website.