Peter Kay show in Birmingham evacuated after potential ‘suspicious bag’ found
Peter Kay’s show was evacuated mid-performance after authorities detected a potentially “suspicious bag” at the venue.
Eyewitnesses said the comedian was removed from the stage by security 45 minutes into his show at the Utilita Arena Birmingham on Friday.
West Midland Police said they were searching the area after a 19-year-old man was taken into custody.
Police said in a statement: “We are assisting with the evacuation of Birmingham’s Utilita Arena 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 when available.”
Doors opened at 18:00 before the show started at 20:00. Images on social media show people queuing up to leave their places as part of the evacuation. Video taken from outside the venue shows police vehicles and flashing lights.
An arena spokesman said the evacuation was a precautionary measure on the advice of police and ticket holders would be contacted in due course.
“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.
“Ticket holders will be contacted directly in due course.”
The arena, which can seat around 15,800 people, was due to host Mr Kay as part of his latest tour of the UK and Ireland, with all proceeds donated to 12 leading cancer charities.
Charities include: Children With Cancer UK, Teenage Cancer Trust, Kidney Cancer UK, Blood Cancer UK, Bowel Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer UK, DKMS UK, Ovarian Cancer Action, Pancreatic Cancer UK, Anthony Nolan, The Brain Tumor Charity and Breast Cancer UK.
The comedian said last year: “Unfortunately, everyone knows someone who has been affected by this list, and I hope people support it. Come to the shows. That’s why I’m here.”
Mr. Kay became a household name following his TV creation in the early 2000s. Phoenix Nights. He has since appeared in other sitcoms. Peter Kay’s Carpool.
