TICKETS to see Peter Kay sell out within hours. Yet those with a bit more money in their pockets could snap up a personal appearance, costing anything up to £25,000.

That puts him in the same bracket as other big-name celebrities such as fellow comedians Jack Dee, Jasper Carrott and Bury-born Victoria Wood and presenters Jonathan Ross, Denise Van Outen and Carol Vorderman.

They are among many stars who make themselves available for personal appearances -- such as after-dinner speeches or big company events. For many celebrities, the appearance circuit is a highly lucrative one, with many just giving up an hour of their time for a big fee.

Singers such as Tom Jones and Lulu charge upwards of £25,000 for an appearance -- and much more for a personal concert. But even stumping up thousands of pounds for Peter Kay may not be enough.

His seemingly endless touring is taking up much of his time -- so finding a slot in his diary may be the most difficult part.