November 7, 2007 13:21

Pete Doherty's rehab is 'voluntary'

Babyshambles tour dates unaffected by Doherty's new rehab stint

Photo Gallery: Babyshambles

Babyshambles' drummer Adam Ficek has explained that his bandmate Pete Doherty’s rehab is voluntary, and as such won't affect the band's forthcoming arena tour dates.

As previously reported, Doherty admitted a relapse last week and said that he plans to return to rehab.

The drummer said: “Pete’s not forced to do it [rehab]. The way it works is that he’s able to come out when he wants. I’m hoping he will choose to be based there, then come out for soundchecks and shows.

“He might say he wants to come out for the ten days to do the tour then go back in, I don’t know. It’s all fine. He’s definitely not forced to go, it’s not enforced rehab.

“These arena dates are the most important things to him. He was saying the other day, he’s as happy as he’s ever been. He said he was sitting there with three guys he actually likes, and these arena dates are the most exciting things he’s ever had. It’s all on course.“

Babyshambles will play:

Manchester MEN Arena (November 22)
Newcastle Metro Radio Arena (23)
Brighton Centre (25)
Bournemouth BIC (26)
Wembley Arena (27)
Birmingham NIA (28)
Nottingham Arena (30)
Glasgow SEC (December 1)

To check ticket availability and get all the latest listings, go to NME.COM/GIGS now.