Peter Kay issues statement after two shows suddenly cancelled with 24 hours to go

Peter Kay has issued a statement after two shows are suddenly cancelled just 24 hours before.

The comedian was due to perform at the new Manchester venue, Co-op Live, on 23 and 24 April.

In an update, the venue said: "Following our first test event on Saturday, regretfully we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Kay."

The star was set to be the 'first artist in the world to perform' at the new venue but Peter Kay Live will now take place on rescheduled dates.

The announcement was shared to X today (22 April) with a statement from Kay.

The venue say it is 'critical to ensure we have a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable venue' but the completion of that is 'a few days behind'. So, rescheduling Kay's shows gives extra time to 'continue testing thoroughly'.

With tickets highly sought-after by fans, the popular comedian will remain as Co-op Live's 'grand opening act', it will just be a 'few days later than planned'.

In a statement (sprinkled with a bit of his comedy, of course) Kay said: "I'm truly gutted as I know how disappointing this will be for everyone with tickets, but obviously it's a brand-new venue and it's important that everything is finished and safe for full capacity audiences.

"Fortunately, we've been able to reschedule the shows to next week (I'll have to miss my Bums & Tums class) but hopefully I'll see you then."

So, those with tickets to see Kay will be glad to know they remain valid and you'll be contacted by your 'point of purchase'.

The show tomorrow will be rescheduled to next Monday (29 April) and the show on 24 will now be on 30 April.

Co-op Live added: "We can't wait to welcome fans to Co-op Live for our official grand opening events with Peter Kay, and to showcase Co-op Live at its very best.

"We will still be hosting The Black Keys on 27 April in the lower bowl with 10K fans as planned, and will continue to test the resilience of the venue and its operations."

As it's not exactly guaranteed everyone who had tickets for this show's this week will be able to attend the new dates (maybe they've got Bums & Tums) themselves, the venue points out that tickets may become available.

When the Co-op Live does open, it will be the largest in the UK but the work is not yet complete and it's reported the council's building control is yet to sign it off.