Van Morrison denies Bush gala reports

Van Morrison will not appear at the gala for George W Bush

Singer Van Morrison has denied reports that he is to perform at the inauguration gala for President-elect George W Bush on 18 January.

Initial reports suggested the singer was to contribute to the bi-event marking the election of Mr Bush.

Mr Morrison was never scheduled to appear at this event and has no intention of doing so

Virgin records' statement

But a statement released by Virgin Records on behalf of the Northern Irish singer said: "Reports that Mr Van Morrison will be performing or attending the inauguration ceremonies of President-elect George W Bush are absolutely false.

Celebrity affair

"Mr Morrison was never scheduled to appear at this event and has no intention of doing so."

British comedian and novelist Ben Elton also hit back at recent reports he was to perform at the gala, although songs from his musical The Beautiful Game, co-written with Lord Lloyd-Webber, are being performed.

Van Morrison is best known for Moondance, Here Comes The Night and Brown Eyed Girl.

The only confirmed stars at the inauguration gala are Latin pop star Ricky Martin and Frasier star Kelsey Grammer.

George W Bush's inauguration is less of a celebrity affair than the previous two Bill Clinton inaugurations in 1993 and 1997.

While Mr Clinton called on the services of actors such as Michael Douglas and Whoopi Goldberg, singers Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and James Taylor and bands such as The Grateful Dead, Mr Bush's gala is a more muted affair.

However, actors Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, Chuck Norris, Robert Duvall and Sylvester Stallone are expected to attend a Black Tie and Boot Ball at the Marriott Wardman Hotel in Washington on 18 January.