Peter Kay show stopped and 19-year-old in custody after ‘suspicious bag’ found

Comedian pulled from stage in Birmingham about 45 minutes into performance and audience told to leave

A live show by comedian Peter Kay in Birmingham has been stopped after a “potential suspicious bag” was found around the venue.

The Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody, West Midlands police said on Friday evening.

The force said: “We are assisting with an evacuation at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham after a potential suspicious bag was found.

“A 19-year-old man is in custody and as a precaution the site is currently subject of a search. We will provide further updates when we can.”

Audience members reported that Kay was pulled from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance, and the crowd were asked to leave the venue without being told what was happening.

Steve Aspinall, who was at the show with his wife, told the Press Association: “Two guys came on – one with a mic and headphones. One guy whispered to Peter Kay and then he and Peter Kay shot off down the side.”

He said the audience was told to look for security guards and listen out for any announcements.

“To be honest, I thought it was part of the show at first,” said Aspinall.

Miranda Richardson, 52, a publican from Northampton, said: “It was very swift. One minute [Kay’s] on stage and the gig is great, then two of the event team walk on stage straight to him, quick word and he’s ushered off.”

The arena said in a statement: “Utilita Arena Birmingham has been evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands police after a potential suspicious bag was found nearby.

“The safety and security of our customers and colleagues is our highest priority. We can confirm everyone was safely evacuated and that the venue is secure.”

The venue said ticket holders would be contacted, but did not say whether the incident would have any impact on the planned show the following day.

With PA Media