PETER Kay has announced he is cancelling his live arena tour.

The comedian was due to play more than 80 dates throughout 2018 and 2019, kicking off in Birmingham in April 2018.

Peter Kay tour cancellation: how can I get a ticket refund?

In a statement, he says: “Due to unforeseen family circumstances I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects.

“This unfortunately includes my upcoming stand-up tour, Dance For Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments.

“My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I'm sure you’ll understand my family must always come first.

“I’ve always endeavoured to protect my family's privacy from the media. I hope that the media and the public will continue to respect our privacy at this time, Once again I’m very sorry.”

Customers for Peter Kay's Live Arena Tour and Dance for Life shows will be refunded from their original point of purchase and any specific ticket queries should be directed to them.

Details of the tour – his first live dates since 2010 – were announced last month.

He initially announced 26 dates and delighted fans flocked to buy tickets, with many selling out in minutes and extra gigs were later released.

The much-loved comedian, from Bolton, was due to be at Manchester Arena for a run of shows in June 2018 and May 2019.

Speaking when the tour was announced, the Bafta award-winning writer and actor said: “I really miss it. I know how lucky I am to be making television series and have really loved these past few years working on Car Share, but I miss doing stand-up.

“As terrifying as it is, when it works there’s nothing more fun and exciting. Plus, a lot has happened in the last eight years, with Trump, Twitter and my Nan getting her front bush trimmed at the age of 96.

“I can’t wait to get back up on stage.”

As Dance for Life is a charitable event in aid of Cancer Research UK, ticket holders may, if they wish, still donate to Cancer Research UK by visiting www.cancerresearchuk.org