Twilight star Kristen Stewart apologises to Robert Pattinson over Rupert Sanders affair

Kristen Stewart has apologised publicly to Robert Pattinson following tabloid reports that she had an affair (EPA)

Kristen Stewart has apologised publicly to Twilight co-star Robert Pattinson following tabloid reports that she had a brief affair with her Snow White And The Huntsman director Rupert Sanders.

The 22-year-old actress issued her apology to People magazine.

It was quickly followed by an apology via People from 41-year-old Sanders to his family.

Stewart has been in a relationship with Pattinson for several years. Sanders is married and has two children.

Stewart said her "momentary indiscretion has jeopardised the most important thing in my life, the person I love and respect the most, Rob".

Sanders said he is "utterly distraught about the pain I have caused my family".

US Weekly published photographic evidence of the affair in its latest issue, with the pair in steamy and compromising embraces.