Peter Kay show evacuation: Teen appears in court over alleged bomb hoax after thousands evacuated from Utilita Arena, Birmingham

A teenager has appeared in court over an alleged bomb hoax that saw thousands of people evacuated from a Peter Kay show in Birmingham. The Utilita Arena was cleared on Friday night (May 1) after reports a "suspicious bag" had been spotted at the venue, with 52-year-old Kay taken off stage amid the investigation.

The show was cancelled and the force later said “nothing suspicious was found” during searches.

On Saturday, 19-year-old Omar Majed was arrested and has since been charged with false communications. The teen, of Washwood Heath, is due to appear in custody at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, West Midlands Police said.

In an update on Saturday evening, the force said: “An evacuation of the arena was ordered yesterday evening after a report of a suspicious bag being left in the area.

“Following searches, nothing suspicious was found and we are grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding. As always our priority is the safety of the public.”

The show was part of Kay’s Better Late Than Never national tour, which will see all proceeds donated to 12 cancer charities.