'Optimism Day' hailed a success

A free lunchtime comedy show was the highlight of International Optimism Day

The inaugural International Optimism Day - featuring a free lunchtime show at London's Comedy Store - has been rated a success by its organisers.

The Optimists' Society earmarked the third Monday of January as the ideal day to help people forget their woes.

Up to 30 people attended a motivational session from comedian Neil Mullarkey, before joining a laughter workshop.

Earlier, founder James Battison handed a "cheer package" to BBC Radio 4's John Humphrys, often viewed as being grumpy.

Similar offerings were also due to be sent to Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling, gloomy comedian Jack Dee, the cast of BBC soap Eastenders and Newsnight presenter Jeremy Paxman.

Mr Battison said one new member, known only as Malcolm, had travelled five hours from Scotland by train to come to the London event.

"It blew me away that he wanted to come down and be a part of it," he said.

I'm not suggesting people should forget they are about to lose their house by laughing about it, but they should keep a positive frame of mind James Battison

Mr Battison set up the Optimists' Society when he lost his job, home and girlfriend - and then found out about the death of his friend on "Blue Monday" last year.

He said: "There's a certain amount of flippancy in my life but I encourage people to look at the problems they face in their life, work out what they are, and then focus on the things that they can do something about.

"I'm not suggesting people should forget they are about to lose their house by laughing about it, but they should keep a positive frame of mind."

He is now employed by his best friend, who runs a building company, and is helping him deal with a "jittery" supplier and clients who are "a bit late" paying.

"When he is having a pessimistic day it's my job to look at it positively," said Mr Battison.

"When you do that you can accept things and do something about them.

"If you lose your job it's a good opportunity to learn a new skill or change direction. And you can give 16 hours of your time to charity every week without losing any of your benefits."

Mr Battison is planning something bigger and better next year.

Having seen membership of The Optimists' Society's Facebook group double from 600 to 1,200, he said: "I think we'll do a comedy gig in the evening when more people might be able to come.

"I know quite a lot of comedians and a have a feeling I might be able to persuade a few people to come along."