Lead guitarist of popular folk rock band Mumford & Sons Winston Marshall today (10 March) profusely apologised for praising conservative journalist Andy Ngo's book Unmasked.

The book deals with American radical leftist organisation Antifa, and promises to expose its "radical plan to destroy democracy".

Ngo who gained popularity for his coverage of the violent protests against George Floyd's death, was praised by Marshall for his book, who called it "an important book" and termed Ngo as a "brave man".

"Congratulations Andy Ngo. Finally had the time to read your important book, You are a brave man", Marshall had tweeted.

This endorsement resulted in a major backlash from leftists and social justice warriors, who were subsequently criticised by conservatives as enablers of the infamous cancel culture.

This sustained backlash has now resulted in Marshall tendering an apology and announcing that he will be temporarily stepping away from the band.

In his statement Marshall said that his endorsement had also offended his bandmates and as a result he would be taking time away from the band to "examine his blindspots". He added that he has "realised how his endorsements have the potential to be viewed as approvals of hateful, divisive behaviour".

As reported, during the George Floyd protests, Trump had accused far-left organisations, including activists of ANTIFA, of orchestrating violent riots across several cities of United States.

ANTIFA (in short for anti-fascists) is loosely networked group of militant, left-wing activists who claim to be dedicated to stopping oppression of marginalised communities.

They have been continually accused by conservatives including former US president Donald Trump of resorting to vandalism and violence, including arson.