Controversial Rocker Sid Vicious

Sid Vicious has been voted the most controversial rock star of all time.

The former Sex Pistols bassist - who died of a heroin overdose in 1979, months after he was accused of murdering his girlfriend Nancy Spungen - topped a poll of 2,000 music fans to find the ultimate rock wildchild, scooping 25 per cent of the vote.

Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne - who famously bit the head off a bat during a concert - was voted second, narrowly beating 65-year-old Rolling Stones star Keith Richards into third place.

Amy Winehouse was the highest placed contemporary artist, earning the fourth spot for her hard partying, drug abuse and infamous late night walks around London.

Michael Jackson - whose career has been rocked by a string of child abuse scandals - also earned a place in the top five thanks to his bizarre appearance, controversial marriages and extreme behaviour.

Richard Wheeler, Head of Music at Orange.co.uk, who compiled the survey, said: "There are some colourful characters in rock 'n' roll and it's clear contemporary artists still have some way to go before they knock these legends off their perch.  Old reputations die hard - especially when you're known for biting off a bat's head live on stage."

Goth rocker Marilyn Manson, Babyshambles singer Pete Doherty, troubled pop princess Britney Spears, Kurt Cobain's widow Courtney Love and 'Hung Up' star Madonna made up the rest of the top 10.

Orange's most controversial rock stars:

1. Sid Vicious

2. Ozzy Osbourne

3. Keith Richards

4. Amy Winehouse

5. Michael Jackson

6. Marilyn Manson

7. Pete Doherty

8. Britney Spears

9. Courtney Love

10. Madonna