Peter Kay has been performing 'top secret' comedy shows this week

Peter Kay has been performing 'top secret' stand up shows this week, which has only further fuelled rumours that the comedy legend is about to embark on a major comeback tour.

The Bolton-born comedian reportedly appeared at a theatre in Salford this week to perform some 'new material' for a select audience.

Aside from a few special charity Dance For Life performances this year to raise money for Cancer Research UK, Kay has mostly kept out of the limelight since cancelling his 2018 live arena tour due to 'unforeseen family circumstances'.

But, by the sounds of things, fans might get their chance to see the Car Share star back in action sooner than later!

One fan, Paula, who was lucky enough to catch the exclusive performance live, shared some details from the show on Twitter, admitting that it was so hush-hush that she 'thought it was a scam at first'.

She wrote: "Omg just been to a secret gig with Peter Kay at The Lowry. Best night of my life ever, that guy is a legend. "Phones in locked pounces, secret ticket collection, the lot. Still buzzing."

Naturally, fans of the comedy singer had lots of questions about the top secret show - which isn't even displayed on The Lowry's website - and Paula was happy to oblige without giving any of the material way - as only a true comedy fan would.

"It was the weirdest but best experience ever", she told one Twitter user.

"He is just such a grounded fella. The gig was really raw and unpolished which was what made it so personal."

In another tweet, she added: "We felt really lucky. He had been on the night before so not sure how many of these little gigs he is doing but the whole room was giddy. It was brilliant."

She also noted that the audience had to hand in their phones 'to be put in a pouch' to keep his 'new material' top secret.

Kay took a step back from comedy in 2018 after cancelling his live arena tour due to 'unforeseen family circumstances'

He announced at the time: "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 the public will continue to respect our privacy at this time. Once again I’m very sorry."

He made a brief return to the stage earlier this year with the return of his Dance For Life show in aid of Cancer Research UK.

But, now that the comedy legend is working on new material, could a tour be on the cards for 2023?

LADbible has approached Peter Kay's representatives for comment.