Van Morrison bans fans from alcohol

Van Morrison has banned fans from drinking alcohol at his concerts.

The legendary musician – who battled alcohol addiction in the 70s and 80s and is now teetotal – has told bosses at the Brighton Dome in Sussex, England, not to sell any alcohol before or during his performance tomorrow night (19.09.08) because it might disturb his singing.

Concert promoter Danny Betesh said: "We have had a policy of no drinks being taken into the hall because certain artists find it off-putting to have the audience moving around."

The 'Brown Eyed Girl' singer insists his decision is not an attempt to impose his lifestyle on his audience.

The 63-year-old star is notoriously temperamental, and has previously said he finds it annoying when his fans walk around during his shows because he thinks they should be savouring the experience of seeing him live.

A spokeswoman for the Brighton Dome admitted: "It's not hugely common, but we hire out the venue so we played no part in the decision."

Many concert-goers, who have paid between £40 and £105 for their tickets, are furious with the demands. One disgruntled fan said: "Having a drink at a live show is part of the concert-going experience. It is a real shame Van has decided to make this decision."

Morrison is also due to play alcohol-free shows at the Liverpool Philharmonic and Birmingham Symphony Halls next month.