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Iron Maiden to Vodafone: "Can't return - haven't been away!"

Maybe the saddest PR effort this year was Vodafone's "Live Music Awards" nomination of rock group Iron Maiden as Best Live Return. "We don't qualify," said the group. But they would like the return of guitarist Adrian Smith's brand new Jackson...

The guitar went missing today. The thief will have to keep it a secret, since it's unique. The Award, however, isn't a secret: in the official phrasing of the release: "Iron Maiden advised that they do not wish to be featured."

The explanation:

Although nominated in this year's category for Best Live Return following their triumphant recent show at Twickenham Stadium, they felt that since they have always toured regularly throughout their careers it would not be at all appropriate for them to be included for an award for a Best Live Return,

Choking back tears of frustration, a Vodafone executive commented: "We respect and support the band's decision and have complied with their request to be removed from this year's shortlist."

And Vodafone is also "extremely pleased to announce that James will be replacing them in the category of Best Live Return."