One of Bolton's most famous sons has taken to the stage in his hometown for the first time in two decades.

British comedy royalty Peter Kay broke off from his current tour to appear at the Octagon Theatre performing to elated fans playing three shows to audiences.

He raised £80,000 for the venue in the centre of town.

Currently selling out arenas around the country with his new tour as well as a monthly residency at London’s O2 arena, Peter took time out of his busy schedule to perform three intimate performances at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre, where the comedian attended the Youth Theatre as a teenager and worked on the box office.

Tickets were extremely limited, with priority access given to Octagon Members and Patrons who support the theatre. The majority of seats were then released exclusively to those who signed up to the Octagon’s mailing list and sold out within minutes.

Peter hosted The Bolton News' 150th birthday celebrations which were marked with a talent competition in 2017 in aid of Bolton Hospice, but this is his first stand-up show in 20 years.

Audiences enjoyed brand-new material from the legendary comedian in a joyful and nostalgic show that celebrated the best of Bolton.

He talked about working there in the 1990s before he was "let go."

The performances came as a break from his three year tour which began in 2022.

Kay, who hails from Farnworth and attended the Mount Saint Joseph School, first emerged in 1997 when he appeared in an episode of New Voices which showcased new comedic talent.

Earlier this year his memoir TV Big Adventures on the Small Screen was named as a Sunday Times bestseller.

During his recent performance at the Octagon he reminisced about various memories in his hometown.

The event was sponsored by fellow Bolton brand Carrs Pasties.

Chief Executive at the Octagon, Roddy Gauld said it was a "unique experience."

He said: “We had an incredible day on Sunday with three shows by Peter Kay.

"Over one thousand people got the chance to be part of a hilarious, exclusive, and up-close performance with one of Britain’s best loved comedians, here in his hometown.

"It was a unique experience that Octagon donors and returning customers were able to book.

“We’re a charity and rely upon fundraising.

"Every pound allows us to create more magical, creative experiences on and off stage for young people and communities in Bolton and beyond.

"We’re incredibly grateful to Peter for his support and to Carrs Pasties, who sponsored the shows.

"We raised a total of £80k and a big thank you to everyone who came, donated, and joined a memorable event that people will be talking about for years.

“Peter was a member of our Youth Theatre before working in our box office, and his talent and passion for comedy was clear then.

"So, you never know who you’ll meet when you book a ticket or see a show here."

The Octagon, which as a registered charity, relies on public donations and funding to continue its creative and community work in Bolton and beyond.