Van Morrison denies new baby claims

Van Morrison has denied reports alleging that he has become a father again.

In a statement to The Daily Telegraph, the Northern Irish singer claimed that a post on his website appearing to confirm the birth had been a hoax.

"The comments which appeared on my website did not come from me," he said.

"They are completely and utterly without foundation. For the avoidance of all doubt and in the interests of clarity, I am very happily married to Michelle Morrison with whom I have two wonderful children."

Morrison added that this is the second time his website has been hacked in three months and that his management team are carrying out an "immediate investigation".

A friend of the singer added to BBC News that Morrison had never heard of the woman with whom he was alleged to have had the child.