It was perhaps the most famous phrase associated with the Monty Python star, but he didn't expect it to be enforced by law.

Edinburgh City Council had to use legal means after claims Life of Brian Terry Gilliam is "a very naughty boy!” after all, when a mix up spoiled his unveiling of a huge illuminated statement in the Scottish capital.

But the council admitted the embarrassing hold-up was not needed in the end.

The comedy hero -who is to be named as an unlikely literary ambassador for Edinburgh - was forced to postpone the launch of the latest new addition to the city’s literary quarter because of a failure to file health and safety paperwork.

A source said a council official was essential to sign off the ten-foot sign amid fears it might “blow away in the wind”.

But the whole thing was cancelled for a day because of the oversight.

The Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust came up against the city's licensing authority over the projection of words from Don Quixote, a Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra.

Ali Bowden, Director, Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust, said: "Working on a project that involves Don Quixote is always going to be one that involves bedevilling aspects, as Terry Gilliam knows only too well, as will those of you who have watched Lost in La Mancha.

"Despite every box being ticked for this particular art installation, the Quixote Curse continues and we’re experiencing a few hiccups along the route.

"We are confirming plans for the installation and will let you know."

A spokesman for the City of Edinburgh Council said: “We’re sorry there’s been a delay to the installation but look forward to seeing Terry Gilliam’s homage to Don Quixote in its full glory on Friday."