AN anarchist pop group who caused a Brit Awards storm by tipping water over Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott have been snubbed by organisers of this year's event.

East Lancashire band Chumbawamba - who had a number one hit with Tubthumping - haven't been invited to tonight's ceremony, which will be attended by Prime Minister Tony Blair and Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson, the Minister for Pop Music.

Singer Danbert Nobacon, real name Nigel Hunter from Burnley, caused a furore at last year's ceremony when he poured a bucket of ice over Mr Prescott.

The band, four of whom are from Burnley, said the gesture was a valid protest at Labour's policies and politicians' attempt to boost their credibility by being seen with pop stars.

Singer Alice Nutter said: "We haven't been invited. Tony Blair is going to be there and there's no way we would have been let anywhere near him after what happened! We still think Labour are hounding people and doing things the Tories would never have dared to do."

Former Towneley High pupil Alice said: "The organisers pretend The Brits is a cutting edge event. They invited us along last year for a bit of sensationalism and they got a bit more than they bargained for.

"We did ask if we could have our usual table this year," joked Alice.

A spokeswoman for The Brit Awards said the guest list was secret and she was unable to confirm whether Chumbawamba were invited. Top tip for an upset this year must be Massive Attack. The trip-hop group, nominated in five categories, swore and refused to shake hands with the Duchess of York as she gave them a prize at last year's MTV Europe Awards.

Former Take That star Robbie Williams is hot favourite to steal tonight's show after securing a record six nominations.

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