Peter Kay’s shows at Britain’s biggest arena this week have been postponed, with as little as 24 hours’ notice.

The comedian had been due to officially open the new Co-op Live venue in Manchester tomorrow and Wednesday – but the has said it is not ready.

Bosses said work on the power supply is ‘few days’ behind schedule.

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.’

The venue – which will  hold up to 23,500 people when fully open –  held its first test event on Saturday with Rick Astley, but was forced to cancel some tickets just hours beforehand.

In a statement, they said: ‘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.’

Kay's performances have been rescheduled to next week, April 29 and 30.

‘We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this change will undoubtedly cause for some,’ the venue added. ‘We are thrilled to welcome Peter Kay as our grand opening act just a few days later than planned.'

Fans were not happy with the news, having shelled out on other expenses to make the gig - and also that they had not been told directly about the date change.

One posted on X: ‘WOW ! Test event Saturday and 2 days later you decide to cancel at midday! Who will compensate my hotel and rail fare I no longer need ! And to add insult we can’t make next week!! Disgusting and still not been told by ticketmaster!'

Another added: ‘Can I get a refund for parking please as I can’t attend those dates. Parking was quite substantial at £25.’ 

Another posted: ‘Is there going to be any form of compensation for the people who now cannot attend the reschedule dates? No direct contact from Co-Op live had to find this out through social media that's pathetic customer service.

And a fourth said:  ‘Please tell me why I am finding this out on flipping TWITTER and have not been emailed?’

US rock band The Black Keys will play Co-Op Live on Saturday with a 10,000 capacity.