Peter Kay, 45, released a statement on Twitter back in 2017, telling his 747,000 followers he was cancelling all of his upcoming work commitments, including his tour due to “unforeseen family circumstances”. He added: “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.”
The charity is focused on finding a cure for Mitochondrial Disease, which can cause seizures, vision and hearing loss, fatigue, cognitive disabilities, respiratory problems or poor growth.
Peter announced he was performing the two gigs in March last year, telling his fans all profits would go to the charity.
He commented: “A matinee charity screening of the BAFTA award-winning #CarShare added at Blackpool Opera House due to exceptional demand.
“Tickets for the screening this Saturday at 3:30pm prompt in aid of The Lily Foundation now on sale http://ticketmaster.co.uk/peterkay.”
After the shows, The Lily Foundation website thanked the comedian for his support and care in a statement.
They wrote: “We can’t thank Peter and his team enough for this incredibly generous donation.
“For a small charity like ours this is a very significant sum.”
The charity went on to say the generous funds will “make a real difference to the lives of children with mitochondrial disease by providing vital equipment and care that improves the quality of their lives.”
They added: “I know I speak for all our families in thanking Peter from the bottom of our hearts. He’s shown once again what a real star he is.”
Peter previously said: “The Lily Foundation is an inspiring charity that helps to improve the lives of children with mitochondrial disease.
“I’ve had first-hand experience of the Foundation’s work and I’m proud to raise both awareness and much needed funds to help with the inspiring work they provide to children and their families.”
Elsewhere, earlier this week Peter Kay looked cheerful during a rare public outing in Blackpool.
The comedian was spotted looking relaxed as he enjoyed the good weather in the popular seaside town.
Peter was pictured on one of the Heritage Tram Tours, with the company sharing the photo with their 1,995 followers on Twitter.
Peter appeared in high spirits as he posed with two of the tour’s employees, wearing a checked shirt, a baseball cap and sunglasses.
“We do love a celebrity passenger on our tours,” the company tweeted, joking: “When we can’t get one @PeterKay_co_uk will do instead!
“He kindly allowed a a photo with the driver and conductor on Boat 600 this afternoon.”(sic)