Katy Perry has denied that a picture of her holding a knife is related to the UK's current violent crime problems.

The 23-year-old American singer was widely condemned earlier this week when the picture, taken by fashion photographer Terry Richardson, emerged on the internet.

In a statement, the singer's US publicist told MTV: “Katy Perry is against all violence. The photo in question was taken in 2005 and is in no way related to the current events in the UK.”

The publication of the photo came just days after a 16-year-old army cadet was stabbed outside a Liverpool Youth Club.

The attack was the latest in a string of violent offences which have raised fears about the safety of Britain's streets.

Richard Taylor, the father of murdered school boy Damilola Taylor, was among those to critise the picture, which was intended for Perry's album 'One of the Boys', but eventually overlooked.

Perry is no stranger to controversy. Her debut single, 'I Kissed A Girl', drew a mixed response when it was released during the summer.

The singer is due to host the MTV Europe Music Awards in Liverpool next month.

(by Jason Gregory)