Snow Patrol hit back at Nicky Wire

Snow Patrol have responded to Manic Street Preachers bassist Nicky Wire, who once said that they were "the most hated band" in the world.

Lead singer Gary Lightbody told the Daily Record that his band make "heartfelt, honest, melodic music".

He said: "To be the most hated, you have to be the most loved, too. Nicky Wire has earned the right to say whatever he wants, he's a rock god, so more power to him. We only seem dull on the surface.

"I know there are people who despise Snow Patrol and think our music is boring - too mellow, too earnest. People think of us as that band with that song on Grey's Anatomy and decide to hate us."

He added: "One review said our fourth album would 'keep Ford Focus drivers happy', meaning our music appeals to average blokes, not hipsters.

"But, in our heads, the music we make is vital and passionate."