Ed Sheeran has responded to news that he is the most illegally downloaded artist in the UK.

As previously reported, Sheeran's debut album '+' was recently named as the top record for illegal downloads in the UK, beating off competition from the likes of Rihanna.

The Sun quotes the singer-songwriter as saying that he wants his album, which was released in 2011, to be heard by "everyone" and suggested that there is money to be made from touring. He said:

"I didn't make the album to go on tens of thousands of iPods. I made the album to be universal and for everyone to hear it. So if nine million have my record and 800,000 come to my gig and pay £30, I make a living."

Sheeran meanwhile also opened up on life on tour and the dangers of living with crew members. He added:

"When you're on tour, you live in close proximity to your crew. So there's the odd occasion where you'll walk in and see someone stark b****** naked or they'll walk in on you. I've been 'tackle out' a few times."