British comedian Peter Kay has cancelled his first live tour in eight years over "unforeseen family circumstances".

In a statement, he said: "I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects.

"My sincerest apologies.

"The 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 the public will continue to respect our privacy at this time.

"Once again I’m very sorry."

Customers can be refunded from their original point of purchase.

Ticketmaster Ireland says customers who purchased online or by telephone using debit or credit cards need to take no action - as their account will automatically be refunded within the next few days.

For customers who purchased in person from a Ticketmaster agent outlet or venue, full refunds are available from the point of purchase from Thursday December 14th.

Kay had been due to play 12 dates between Dublin and Belfast - as well as London, Manchester and several other UK cities.

His last tour in 2010, which still officially ranks with the Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest selling comedy tour of all time, played to over 1.2 million people.