Peter Kay has cancelled his Peter Kay Live Arena Tour and all other work commitments due to 'unforeseen circumstances'.

The comedian, actor, author, director and producer was due to embark on his first live show in eight years in 2019 with six dates at Dublin's 3Arena and six more at Belfast's SSE Arena.

In Ireland this includes his January 13,14,15,18,19,20 2019 dates at the SSE Arena Belfast and February 1,2,3,6,7,8 2019 at the 3Arena Dublin.

In a statement he said: ‘Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret 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 project 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.’

The refund policy for Irish ticket holders is as follows: For Ticketmaster customers who purchased online or by telephone using debit or credit card no action is required as your account will automatically be refunded within the next few days.

For customers who purchased in person from a Ticketmaster agent outlet or venue full refunds available from your point of purchase from tomorrow 10AM Thursday 14th December 2017.

Anyone who had planned to attend the charitable event Dance for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK may, if they wish, still donate to Cancer Research UK by visiting www.cancerresearchuk.org

The star's last tour in 2010, which still ranks with the Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest selling comedy tour of all time, played to over 1.2 million people.

Of his decision to return to stand-up he recently 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."

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Online Editors