Peter Kay says he is 'doing great' as he makes a rare public appearance

Peter Kay told fans he was doing "great" as he made a rare public appearance near Bolton in aid of a good cause.

The comedy legend was the guest of honour as he helped launch a new wheelchair-accessible 'wheelyboat' at the Anderton Centre, near Chorley, on Saturday (April 23). The 48-year-old cracked a few jokes with delighted fans as he officially launched the boat, which will offer disabled adults and children the opportunity to enjoy water-based sports and activities.

Peter has taken a step back from the spotlight over recent years, after "unforeseen family circumstances" forced him to cancel his nationwide tour in 2017. The Phoenix Nights co-creator, from Bolton, returned to the stage earlier this month to begin his first tour in 11 years, performing his Dance For Life show at Manchester Central Convention Complex on Good Friday.

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Speaking on Saturday, the stand-up comedian revealed how he and his three children had enjoyed outdoor activities at The Anderton Centre, where the boat was launched on the Lower Rivington Reservoir. After being introduced as a guest of honour at the launch, Peter was presented with a gift, much to the amusement of the crowd - a T-shirt emblazoned on the back with the words 'Honorary Instructor'.

"It’s very lovely to be here today, I’m honoured to be asked to launch this fantastic wheelyboat, which I hope gives a lot of people a lot of pleasure and happiness out on the water," the dad-of-three said on Saturday, according to PA.

"The Anderton Centre is a fantastic place and I love coming here, and the people are really nice and when it’s a nice day and there’s an heatwave you think you’re in the south