BOB VYLAN singer Pascal Robinson has secured substantial damages after a defamatory article published in Manchester Evening News accused him of throwing Nazi salutes.

An article published on October 6 under the headline “Jewish leaders and MPs ‘deeply concerned’ over Bob Vylan gig in Manchester” falsely stated that Mr Robinson had “performed Nazi salutes on stage.”

The band said this was untrue, explaining that each show begins with a guided stretching and meditation routine.

As part of the practice, the duo raise their left arms directly upward toward the sky in a reaching motion, a sun salutation, while placing their right hand over their heart, solicitors Rahman Lowe clarified in a statement.

Manchester Evening News publisher Reach plc has issued a correction and apology on its website and agreed to pay damages.

Mr Robinson said: “To have something rooted in mindfulness, peace and connection distorted into a symbol of hate was both painful and outrageous.

“Our art has always stood against oppression in all its forms, racism, fascism, and discrimination, and we will never stop using our platform to speak truth to power.”