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The Peter Kay gig in Birmingham was evacuated after a “potential suspicious bag” was found, police say. Photograph: Steve Aspinall\/PA Wire <\/p>\nA live show by comedian Peter Kay in Birmingham has been stopped after a \u201cpotential suspicious bag\u201d was found around the venue.<\/p>\n
The Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody, West Midlands police said on Friday evening.<\/p>\n
The force said: \u201cWe are assisting with an evacuation at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham after a potential suspicious bag was found.<\/p>\n
\u201cA 19-year-old man is in custody and as a precaution the site is currently subject of a search. We will provide further updates when we can.\u201d<\/p>\n
Audience members reported that Kay was pulled from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance, and the crowd were asked to leave the venue without being told what was happening.<\/p>\n
The arena said in a statement: \u201cUtilita Arena Birmingham has been evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands police after a potential suspicious bag was found nearby.<\/p>\n
The Peter Kay gig in Birmingham was evacuated after a “potential suspicious bag” was found, police say. Photograph: Steve Aspinall\/PA Wire <\/p>\n
\u201cThe safety and security of our customers and colleagues is our highest priority. We can confirm everyone was safely evacuated and that the venue is secure.\u201d<\/p>\n
The venue said ticket holders would be contacted, but did not say whether the incident would have any impact on the planned show the following day. \u2013 Guardian<\/p>\n