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

Comedian Peter Kay’s live show in Birmingham has been halted after a “potentially suspicious bag” was found around the venue.

West Midlands police said in a statement on Friday evening that the Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody.

Police said: “We are assisting with the evacuation of the Utilita Arena in Birmingham following the discovery of a potentially suspicious bag.

“A 19-year-old male is in custody and the site is currently being searched as a precaution. We will provide further updates as we can.”

Audience members reported that Kay was removed from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance and the crowd was asked to leave the theater without being told what had happened.

A statement from the arena said: “Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands police after a potentially suspicious bag was found nearby.

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

The venue said it would contact ticket holders but did not say whether the incident would have any impact on the show scheduled the next day.