Hundreds of people had to be cleared from the Utilita Arena
21:49, 02 May 2026Updated 22:01, 02 May 2026
Several police cars parked up outside the Utilita Arena Birmingham as the venue was evacuated
A man has been charged after Peter Kay’s Birmingham gig was evacuated for no good reason.
The comedian was playing the first of two nights at the city’s Utilita Arena when attendees were told they would need to leave immediately.
Police closed canalside paths around the venue as a precaution.
Read more Police statement in full after man arrested at Peter Kay gig in Birmingham
It has now been confirmed there was a bomb hoax.
Omar Majed, 19 has been charged with false communications relating to a bomb hoax.
Majed, of Washwood Heath, Birmingham, has been remanded to appear at Birmingham Magistrate’s Court on 4 May.
An evacuation of the arena was ordered yesterday evening after a report of a suspicious bag being left in the area.
Police on the stairs at the Utilita Arena Birmingham after Peter Kay’s show was cancelled
Following searches, nothing suspicious was found.
West Midlands Police said they were “grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding”, adding: “As always our priority is the safety of the public.”
Peter Kay is playing the Utilita Arena again tonight.
The tour is raising money for 12 cancer charities.