Peter Kay fans break down in tears as comedian returns to the London stage after years out of the spotlight

PETER Kay returned to the London stage last night after years away from the spotlight - and fans were in tears.

The star took his charity Dance for Life show, which raises funds for Cancer Research, to Alexandra Palace.

One fan tweeted: "Why did I get emotional when I saw Peter Kay tonight? I love him so much 😭."

Another wrote: "SOBBED when I was Peter Kay arrive on stage. Brought back so many memories from years ago."

Peter appeared on stage dressed in a gold and white tracksuit covered in pictures of records.

He thanked people who bought tickets, before spinning feelgood tracks from the likes of Queen and Abba.

Peter left the crowd laughing as he told them: "It really is a wonderful thing you're doing tonight, raised a lot of money and having a dance. It's very kind of you. It would be absolutely s*** if I were on my own."

Phoenix Nights and Car Share star Peter was once one of Britain's most prolific stage acts with his record-breaking Tour That Doesn't Tour Tour... Now On Tour.

However, the entertainer, 48, stepped away from the limelight in 2017 due to "unforeseen family circumstances".

That meant that the Dance For Life project had to be put on ice for years.

In a statement on Twitter, Peter wrote: "Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects.

"This unfortunately includes my upcoming stand-up tour, Dance for Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments.

"My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I’m sure you’ll understand my family must always come first.

"I’ve always endeavoured to protect my family’s privacy from the media. I hope that the media and public will continue to respect our privacy at this time. Once again, I’m very sorry."

The comedy superstar did make a special appearance on stage last year for two charity specials after several years out of the limelight - and it sold out in seconds.

He also played two gigs August to raise money for Laura Nuttall, who has glioblastoma, the same form of brain cancer The Wanted singer Tom Parker had.