February 9, 2006 10:57

Pete Doherty plays 'freedom gig'

Show in London on day he's released from jail

Photo Gallery: Babyshambles
Photo: Danny North

Pete Doherty played a ‘freedom gig’ in London last night (February 8).

The singer was joined by Babyshambles for a show at the Boogaloo bar in north London.

The gig was on the same day Doherty was released from jail after his sentencing after pleading guilty to possession of drugs.

The singer was served with a 12-month community order at Ealing Magistrate’s Court (February 8).

As part of the order Doherty has to go on a drug rehab program for the next year, and has to be tested for drugs once a month. If the order is broken, he could be sentenced in a different way, meaning the possibility of prison remains if he doesn’t stay clean.

Speaking after the verdict, Doherty said he was pleased to have avoided jail time.

“I'm not a threat to society, I'm not selling drugs to anyone's children,” he told Radio 1 “I'm not encouraging and never will encourage anyone to take drugs”.

He’s due at Thames Magistrates Court on March 8 to review the order.

Were you at the show? E-mail your reports and pictures to news@nme.com.