Chris Rock performed a surprise gig at London’s Comedy Store on Friday night, ahead of his censored appearance at the Live Earth concert.

In what is believed to be his first live stand-up performance in three year, Rock's blistering 20-minute set contained such typically provocative material as teaching white people how to use the word 'nigger'.

But as far as TV viewers were concerned, his appearance at Saturday's Wembley gig lasted less than 10 seconds, as BBC bosses pulled the plug as soon as he swore.

The comedian, wearing a bright yellow suit, told the Wembley crowd: 'We're here to save the environment... Paris Hilton is playing here next week - there are still some tickets available. Hey I’m only joking, motherfuckers! She can't really play here.'

The BBC suddenly cut to Jonathan Ross, who was sitting in the studio with Russell Brand and Alan Carr, buts unprepared to go to air.

'What a naughty boy,' Ross eventually said. 'We should make him apologise personally to all of you to his foul, foul, dirty mouth.'

Here is the clip...

Later, when pressed by Ross, Rock indicated he would like to tour the UK later this year

Eddie Izzard was also at the gig and acknowledged the widely-reported hypocrisy of high-living celebrities lecturing people on environmental issues.

'We're probably more guilty than anyone with all this flying around and stuff,' he said. But he added: 'With two billion people watching, today is the day to start.'

Ricky Gervais also made mention of all the acts flying to the gig, before introducing a reformed Spinal Tap, who played Stonehenge, Warmer Than Hell and Big Bottom.