John Lydon has responded to the statement issued by Bloc Party's Kele Okereke yesterday, which alleged that the Sex Pistols singer had been involved in a racist attack.

He has denied any involvement in what was deemed an 'unprovoked' attack, saying that Okereke should "grow up and learn to be a true man".

"I feel very sorry for a man who needs to lie about what was a perfect evening," his statement read. "After the show John Rotten and management remained behind to sign autographs, which we did for four solid hours without incident and had a great time talking to other Spanish bands. This seems to have sparked jealousy in certain bands. The trouble was brought to us, resulting in those causing the trouble being physically removed by festival security."

He added: "We are in the middle of a wonderful tour, after 30 years we are achieving a true unity in our audience. They are multi-varied, all ages, all races, creeds and colours.When you are at a festival with bands who are jealous fools, lies and confusion usually follow. If they need publicity so badly this is the allegation universe they run into."