Gorillaz refuse Mercury nomination

Gorillaz are refusing to accept their nomination for this year's Mercury Music Prize.

The band have issued a statement saying they want no part of the prize and will refuse to attend the ceremony in September.

Bass player Murdoc is quoted as saying, "Mercury? Sounds a bit heavy to me, man.

"Like carrying a dead albatross round your neck for eternity. No thanks, man! Why don't you nominate some other poor muppet?"

Gorillaz are a cartoon invention featuring music played by a variety of musicians including Blur frontman Damon Albarn.