Gorillaz' Damon Albarn Branded 'Irresponsible' For Smoking On Stage In Portsmouth

Gorillaz are feeling the wrath of an anti-smoking charity after Damon Albarn allegedly sparked up at a gig in Portsmouth last night (March 21).

Guest guitarist Paul Simonen also reportedly smoked on stage at the Wedgewood Rooms on the opening date of Gorillaz' ultra-intimate fanclub only UK tour.

According to portsmouth.co.uk, anti-smoking charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) have now called for Albarn and Simonen to be prosecuted.

Spokeswoman Amanda Sandford told the website: “There can be no excuse for that as it is an indoor place and the law is very clear. We are not allowed to smoke on stage unless it's relevant to the act.

“They should be fined. It's not just the artist, it's the premises where the act is held. I would expect the local authority to take the appropriate action.

“It's not just illegal but more importantly it's about the message it sends out to fans.

“People in the public eye have a duty not to promote smoking. It's very irresponsible - I suppose they think it's rebellious and they may get some extra kudos from it and maybe some extra publicity.”

Despite portsmouth.co.uk's claims, a spokesperson for the Wedgewood Rooms said they were unaware any smoking took place and confirmed they had received no complaints.

(by Scott Colothan)

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