Madonna denies adoption rumours

Madonna has denied rumours she is adopting a baby boy while visiting an orphanage in Malawi.

The pop star is on a visit to raise awareness and support charities, but statements reported from the country's Government had suggested she hoped to adopt a boy.

Her publicist Liz Rosenberg has refuted the speculation, however. She told the Associated Press: "Madonna has not adopted a baby boy as has been previously and incorrectly reported.

"She is on a private visit to Malawi and is involved in the building of an orphanage/child care centre as well as other initiatives to help the children of that country who have lost parents to AIDS."

Madonna visited an orphanage on the second day of her visit where children were given translated versions of her book The English Roses.

Orphanage director Anne Chikhwaza said husband Guy Ritchie had joined her on the trip. "She and her husband are very lovely," she commented. "She has a kind heart, she really wants to help."