A DORSET-born, renowned classical music conductor has pulled out of a planned appearance at the BBC Proms after allegations emerged he punched a singer who walked off stage in the wrong direction.

Sir John Eliot Gardiner, who hails from Fontmell Magna, has apologised for ‘losing his temper’ after an incident at the Festival Berlioz, at La Côte-Saint-André, France on Tuesday (August 22).

It has been claimed Sir John assaulted bass singer William Thomas after he left the podium in the wrong direction.

Mr Thomas’ management company, Askonas Holt, confirmed an ‘incident took place’ at the concert.

“Bass William Thomas is looking forward to continuing the tour with performances in Salzburg, Versailles, Berlin and at the BBC Proms, and will not be making a statement at this time,” a spokesperson said.

“All musicians deserve the right to practise their art in an environment free from abuse or physical harm.”

Sir John said: “I deeply regret the incident which occurred at the Festival Berlioz at La Côte-Saint-André on Tuesday evening and apologise unreservedly for losing my temper immediately after the performance.

“I make no excuses for my behaviour and have apologised personally to Will Thomas, for whom I have the greatest respect. I do so again, and to the other artists, for the distress that this has caused.

“I realise how much this has affected all the participants involved in this major project and which has been so dear to my heart.

“I know that physical violence is never acceptable and that musicians should always feel safe. I ask for your patience and understanding as I take time to reflect on my actions.”

It has now been confirmed the 80-year-old conductor, who has received numerous awards for his work around the world, will not appear as part of the BBC Proms event.

He had been due to conduct a performance of Berlioz’s The Trojans, a role which will now be performed by his assistant, Dinis Sousa.