PETER Kay's new book has become the fastest selling autobiography of the year - before it has even been published.

The Sound of Laughter is officially released today, but massive pre-orders have ensured it will be number one on the bestseller list.

And an exclusive podcast of chapter one, read by Peter himself, is now available on the Bolton comedian's website - the first time such a venture has been done by an author for their own autobiography on the internet.

The book charts Peter's life before he became a household name for his shows Phoenix Nights and Max and Paddy's Road to Nowhere, as well as his stand-up comedy tours.

The final chapter ends ten years ago this week, just after he was crowned North West Comedian of the Year.

Peter, 33, who now lives in Bury, said: "I just wanted the book to sound conversational and be similar in style to my stand-up. I also wanted to make it as light-hearted as I could. People need as much laughter as they can get, especially in this day and age."