Spears says umbrella attack was research

Britney Spears has apologised for her umbrella attack on a photographer earlier this year, explaining that she got "carried away" in her preparations for a film.

In a handwritten letter to gossip website X17online, Britney said: "Dear X17. I want to apologise for the past incident with the umbrella. I was preparing a character for a possible movie role where the husband doesn't play his part so they swap places."

She added: "Unfortunately, I didn't get the part. I'm sorry I got all carried away with my role! Britney."

In February the 'Toxic' singer checked herself out the Los Angeles Promises rehab centre after she heard that her estranged husband Kevin Federline wanted temporary custody of their two sons.

The star drove to Kevin's home only to be turned away, causing her to fly into a rage, attacking a parked car and a photographer with an umbrella.