Spikey complains over book 'libel'

Phoenix Nights star Dave Spikey is demanding an apology after a new book wrongly criticised him for a routine he has never performed.

In Sunshine On Putty, author Ben Thompson attacks Spikey for appearing on the BBC2 series Live Floor Show doing material about 'mongs'.

But Spikey - who plays compere Jerry St Clair in the Channel 4 sitcom - has never been on the progamme. And he says he says he would never broach that sort of material anyway.

"The statement is absolutely untrue," he told Chortle. "I certainly would never, ever attempt to get laughs at the expense of the mentally challenged as I hope everyone who knows me would confirm."

"I can stand most forms of criticism, but I found this statement particularly upsetting and tantemount to defamation of character."

Spikey has written to publishers Fourth Estate demanding a retraction and apology

No one at the company was available for comment.

Published: 30 Jan 2004