Photo: WENN.com
A host of UK musicians including Pete Townshend, Jarvis Cocker have signed a letter which calls for the release of Russian punk band Pussy Riot from prison in their native country.
Three female members of the band were jailed following a protest in Moscow's main cathedral earlier this year. With Russian President Vladimir Putin due in the UK this week for a meeting with PM David Cameron, now is seen as the ideal time to appeal for the groups release.
Pet Shop Boys star Neil Tennant has also backed the letter, which was published in The Times today (Aug 2).
The letter states: "Dissent is a right in any democracy and it is entirely disproportionate that they face seven years in jail for what we consider a preposterous charge of 'hooliganism motivated by religious hatred'.
"We are especially concerned about recent reports that food is being withheld from them and that they have appeared in court in a cage.
"We believe firmly that it is the role of the artist to make legitimate political protest and fight for freedom of speech."
Vladimir Putin is also expected to attend the Olympic Games during his UK visit, with plans to watch his favourite sport, judo.
Other artists who have called for the release of Pussy Riot include Red Hot Chili Peppers and Franz Ferdinand.
