SMG Europe, the operator of the Leeds Arena, nine other venues in the UK and sites in Germany, Turkey, Poland and Norway, has reported strong annual results.

The US-owned group - which has its headquarters at its 20,000-capacity flagship Manchester venue - said its 2011 results had been boosted by comedian Peter Kay's "sensational" 20-night run in Manchester.

Profits rose from £5.7m to £6.4m on turnover of £44.1m, up from £42.2m the year before.

Directors said UK trading had improved "s......for the full story register now for free or login below...