A publicist for Plant denied the story earlier this week, calling the report "rubbish." and Branson wrote on his blog, "I've been left dazed and confused by a story doing the rounds this week about us apparently offering Led Zeppelin �500 million to reform and carry out a tour. As much as I love the band, there is absolutely no truth to the story."

"There were even claims that Virgin Atlantic was about to rename one of our planes and include a stairway to heaven in honour of the band However nice an idea, this is also completely untrue.

"After a week of seeing worryingly inaccurate reports in various publications regarding Virgin, it was sad but not particularly surprising to see yet another fabricated story."

He also wrote, "I spoke to Robert Plant about the story, which he also confirmed is complete rubbish from his side too. Robert told me he is very proud of his history and the band's past, and has always had great respect and love for his work throughout his career. However, he really believes he must move on with his life and career today."