pete dohertyPete Doherty has confirmed he is going to regroup his former band The Libertines in the near future.

The group - singer/rhythm guitarist Pete, singer/lead guitarist Carl Barât, drummer Gary Powell and bassist John Hassall - got together in 1997 and released two critically acclaimed albums in 2002 and 2004, but their later years as a band were disrupted by Pete’s drug use.

Pete was first asked to leave the group in 2003, after he was jailed for burgling Carl’s flat, then again in 2004 because of his unwillingness to deal with his drug abuse. Pete went on to form Babyshambles while Carl and drummer Gary started Dirty Pretty Things.

Speaking at this week’s NME Awards though, Pete explained that a reunion is definitely on the cards: “I’ve written and recorded a solo record. There’s probably another on the way.

“There’s an amazing Babyshambles record on the way too and The Libertines is going to happen.

“I didn’t twist Carl’s arm too far. He doesn’t take kindly to it. He’s not harder than me, but he’s got a nasty streak. Twist it too far and it’ll snap.”

An inside source added: “Carl has always said he would not get back together just for the money. Pete’s drug use and erratic behaviour tore the band apart and its demise left Carl heartbroken.

“He vowed not to return until his old best pal had sorted out his problems and, after having a lengthy heart-to-heart with him, he’s confident Pete has turned a corner.

“He is looking forward to working with him again.”