Cleared Jackson gets German prize

Jackson was presented the award by Boris Becker

Michael Jackson has received an award in Berlin, days after he dangled his baby over a hotel balcony in front of the world's press.

Jackson won the Bambi pop star award of the millennium, in the awards organised by German publisher Burda.

He received the award in front of hundreds of guests from former Wimbledon champion Boris Becker.

During his acceptance speech, he urged German youngsters to "work for your dreams, work for your ideals".

Jackson was voted the pop star of the millennium

Jackson's acceptance speech also made reference to Berlin's past and made a plea to world unity amidst growing preparations for war with Iraq.

"We are Christians, Jewish, Muslim and Hindu, we are black, we are white, we are a community of some many differences, so complex and yet so simple," he said.

"We do not need to have war."

Other international stars to receive awards at the ceremony included singer Anastacia and Die Another Day actress Halle Berry.

Overshadowed

But the award has been overtaken by world reaction to Tuesday's incident, where he dangled his youngest child, Prince Michael II, over a railing from the fourth floor of the Hotel Adlon.

He was forced to make an apology after the incident, claiming he had become emotional after seeing fans outside the hotel.

He released a statement saying he would never "intentionally endanger any of my children".

Police on Friday said they would not be investigating the incident, after reviewing pictures of Jackson's actions.

"Police checks have shown the actions are not punishable," spokesman Norbert Gunkel said.

Fans of the singer stood vigil outside his hotel, and were dismissive about the row.

Some newspapers around the world had called for Jackson to be arrested.

"Michael doesn't work with the press, and therefore the press tries to take revenge on him," said German fan Marcel Reinhardt, 27.

Jackson made fleeting appearances for the fans on Thursday, peering out of his hotel windows and waving to the crowd.