Iron Maiden refuse live award nod

Iron Maiden recently played at Twickenham Stadium

Rock band Iron Maiden have asked to be removed from the Vodafone Live Music Awards shortlist after being nominated for the best live return prize.

Vodafone said the band had complained they should not be considered for the prize because they said they had never stopped touring.

In a posting on their website the band said: "We are not quite sure where we are returning from."

Indie group James have now been nominated for the award instead.

The Manchester band, best known for 1991 hit single Sit Down, reformed last year to play five arena concerts in the UK.

Stolen guitar

Iron Maiden, who recently played at Twickenham Stadium, said the nomination was "very flattering".

A Vodafone spokesman said: "We respect and support the band's decision and have complied with their request to be removed from this year's shortlist."

Earlier this week, Iron Maiden asked their fans to be on the lookout for a guitar stolen after a concert in Athens.

The band are offering a signed tour jacket and a letter of thanks from guitarist Adrian Smith as a reward.

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