Moray schoolgirl makes final of joke-telling competition

Brooke Maclean cracked up local judges with her joke: “Why do French people eat snails? Because they don’t like fast food!”

The 11-year-old will now compete at the Speech and Language Therapists’ (RCSLT) VoiceBox competition at the Scottish Parliament on Thursday 5 June 2025.

She said: “I’m nervous but excited. My friends encouraged me to go for it and enter the competition, but I didn’t think I had a chance!

“First of all there was a competition in my class, which I won. Then I had to tell my joke in front of the whole school, and when I won that, my joke went before the judges for the whole of Moray.

“When I heard the other jokes, I didn’t think I had a chance. I’m really pleased but still a bit surprised!”

Brooke’s mum, Sharon, added: “She actually has bragging rights over her little brother – he entered too, but she beat him! But I’m proud of them both. Brooke has always been quiet but very witty, with some great one-liners. Winning has been great for her confidence”

Karen Murray, Head Teacher of Portknockie Primary School, said: “We’re delighted for Brooke, who has shown great humour and confidence and I know the whole school will be cheering her on this Thursday! All of the pupils who took part in the school competition had a great time and did brilliantly.

Chair of the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Brooke, and I wish her the best of luck in the final. I’d also like to congratulate all of the pupils who took part in the local competition, who I understand showed real creativity and wit.”