Comedian Markus Birdman has appeared on this current series of Britain's Got Talent and impressed the judges.

The 52-year-old comedian from Essex explained that he used to be in a band and it wa suggested that he try his hand at comedy. It made it seem as if he was a relative newcomer but he is actually a long-standing stalwart of the comedy circuit. Birdman has had two strokes in recent years but still continues to gig regularly. He talked about the strokes in his short set, joking that he didn't look like a stroke survivor, but in fact he was only 23. He also quipped about accidentally sitting on a blind naked man in the hospital which went down very well.

Simon Cowell said "I don't think anyone was expecting that...you were just brilliant."

Bruno said: "You're not afraid to go there. Your delivery is absolutely spot on" (editor's note, which of course it should be, given how experienced Birdman is).

Alesha said: "I thought every single joke was funny."

And Amanda Holden said: "I'm glad I'm wearing my big knickers tonight. Well done."

All the judges gave him a yes.

Update - Birdman made the semi-final which airs on ITV1 at 8pm on Wednesday, May 31. 

Watch Marcus Birdman on Britain's got Talent below.

Picture: Simon Fowler