The comedy community has been showing its support for comedian Gareth Richards, who was seriously injured in a car crash on the M25 last week. 

A number of performers have said that they will fill Richards' upcoming bookings on the understanding that the fee will be paid to Richards.

Richards had been due to play Brighton stand-up Stephen Grant's Forge club last Saturday. His spot was filled by Will Duggan and Mark Cram and Richards received the fee. Angela Barnes, who was also on, donated her appearance fee to Gareth’s family too and there was also an audience collection at the end which raised a further £100. 

Barnes later tweeted: "Every comedian has the wonderful @garethrichards on their minds and in their hearts right now. One of the loveliest people in the industry. Willing you to pull through this mate xx"

Travis Jay tweeted: "This is proper sad man, definitely gonna be in my prayers for a full recovery bro @garethrichards"

Matt Green added: "Devastated to hear that @garethrichards has been very seriously injured in a car crash. A lovely guy and very funny comedian - I always enjoy working with him. It’s such awful news and I’m sending him and his family much love."

John Mann and Eddie Brimson are among the comedians who have offered to fill in for Richards for no fee.

There is also talk of a fundraiser being organised.

Here is a clip of Richards on Russell Howard's Good News