Two Peter Kay gigs at Manchester’s new Co-op Live arena have been cancelled. The comedian's shows this week on Tuesday and Wednesday would have been the first events at the venue, after an opening night was also scrapped this weekend.

It has been announced that both shows have been cancelled with work not yet complete on the Eastlands venue. The council's building control is yet to sign the building off, reports Manchester Evening News. The two Peter Kay dates will instead take place next Monday (29 April) and Tuesday (30 April).

A spokesperson for Co-op Live said: "Following our first test event on Saturday, regretfully we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Kay. These dates will move from 23 April and 24 Wednesday to Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 April.

"It is critical to ensure we have a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable venue, the completion of which is a few days behind. Rescheduling gives us the extra time we need to continue testing thoroughly. This is vital to satisfy the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols that are necessary for a venue of this size.

"Peter Kay has very graciously agreed to perform his record-breaking comedy at Co-op Live on 29 (rescheduled from 23) and 30 (rescheduled from 24) April 2024. All tickets remain valid and ticket holders will be contacted by their point of purchase. Refunds will be available for those who can no longer attend. We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this change will undoubtedly cause for some.

"We are thrilled to welcome Peter Kay as our grand opening act just a few days later than planned."

Peter Kay said: “I’m truly gutted as I know how disappointing this will be for everyone with tickets, but obviously it’s a brand-new venue and it’s important that everything is finished and safe for full capacity audiences.”

“Fortunately, we’ve been able to reschedule the shows to next week, (I’ll have to miss my Bums & Tums class) but hopefully I’ll see you then."

Co-op Live added: "We can’t wait to welcome fans to Co-op Live for our official grand opening events with Peter Kay, and to showcase Co-op Live at its very best. We will still be hosting The Black Keys on 27 April in the lower bowl with 10K fans as planned, and will continue to test the resilience of the venue and its operations."

It comes after problems with power at the site, which are believed to have affected the fire safety and emergency services communication systems