22/09/08 – Future, the special-interest media group, is delighted to announce Scottish stand-up comic and TV star Frankie Boyle as the host of the 26th Annual Golden Joystick Awards – together with Virgin Media.

The Golden Joystick Awards take place on Friday 31st October at the Park Lane Hilton, London and organisers are encouraging marketing and pr departments to rally their loyal fans. With all UK gamers eligible to vote – companies are invited to promote the Golden Joysticks to their online communities – those who visit official websites, create their own fan communities, or post on forums.

Supporting this quest to secure additional votes for shortlisted products and increase the chance of scooping a prestigious Golden Joystick, Future has created a comprehensive EPK available to all eligible companies – designed to encourage gamers to vote at www.goldenjoystick.com.

Organisers hope the final month of voting will be further strengthened by industry support, rocketing the Golden Joystick Awards towards one million votes for the first-time. As the headline event of London Games Festival – the cultural celebration of everything gaming, the Joysticks are a major focal point – with attendance of mainstream media across the globe already confirmed.

With just a few tables remaining, almost 800 guests will be entertained at the event as Frankie Boyle takes time out from his sold-out tour to present the show, also streamed live at www.goldenjoystick.com and the Virgin Media website – www.virginmedia.com . Frankie first came to prominence when he won the Daily Telegraph’s Open Mic competition in 1996, launching his stand-up career. Since then he has racked up an impressive CV of TV work, including his infamous appearances on BBC Two’s Mock the Week.

Emma Parkinson, Organiser of the Golden Joystick Awards said:

“This year’s Golden Joystick Awards are shaping up to be the best yet, thanks to the support of our sponsor Virgin Media and Frankie Boyle signing up as host.

“The industry has always seen the Joysticks as a focal point of its calendar and long may this continue. Increasingly, it has become a focal point for mainstream press attention and a celebration of the games industry. As we aim for a million votes, we need the help of your fans and customers – make the wider world proud of our industry.”

The EPK is available from libby.latter@futurenet.co.uk. A limited number of tables are still available; please contact Scott Longstaff – scott.longstaff@futurenet.co.uk