Britain's best loved comedian, Peter Kay, has opened his record-breaking 20-night ManchesterArena residency to glowing reviews.

Described by his local Bolton Evening News as "the king of comedy", The Daily Telegraph as "The Tour That Doesn't Tour - Tour de Force" and given the "thumbs up" by the Manchester, the Bolton funnyman performed the first of 35 shows at the Manchester venue on Tuesday 27 April 2010.

Following the first night Peter said: "It's incredibly comforting playing the Manchester Evening News Arena, it's such a special place and part of my life. I was very nervous, as it's a huge run of shows after a long time away from stand-up, but the response last night was unbelievable and quite emotional.

"It's also a pleasure working with the amazing Rick Astley. It was a huge surprise for the audience last night and they absolutely loved him, he's such a talented performer. I met him a couple of years ago when he appeared in Britain's Got The Pop Factor, we got on straight away, he's got a great sense of humour. I think the next four weeks in Manchester are going to be very special for not just myself but everybody involved in the show."

John Knight, General Manager for the Manchester Arena, added: "The response to the opening night of Peter's ManchesterArena residency has been phenomenal. Those lucky enough to bag a ticket have been raving about his new material and there's now a real clamour for the last remaining tickets for when Peter closes his Tour That Doesn't Tour - Tour with us back here next autumn."

Peter Kay's The Tour That Doesn't Tour - Tour continues until Saturday 22 May before returning with another 15 shows in autumn 2011 with The Tour That Doesn't Tour - Tour - Farewell Tour.