Malcolm McLaren will be remembered as a figure who had a tremendous influence on British culture.

In terms of music, punk was one of the most important developments of modern times. And without Malcolm McLaren, punk may never have exploded in the way that it did.

He was instrumental in selling the idea and image of punk to the public, especially through the Sex Pistols. He helped to create the band’s unique look as well as their publicity-attracting attitude.

McLaren famously organised a boat trip down London’s River Thames so the Sex Pistols could perform their version of God Save The Queen outside the Houses of Parliament, during the week that the Queen was celebrating her Silver Jubilee.

The boat was raided by the police, and McLaren was arrested. The headlines that inevitably followed helped to fortify his and the band’s controversial reputation.

For many artists he embodied the idea they could successfully challenge the musical establishment. It is an idea that inspired a generation of musicians, and still endures today.