The Libertines postpone gigs on day of album release

The Libertines' apologised to their fans on Facebook for postponing the shows

The Libertines have reassured fans that frontman Pete Doherty is "safe" after the band called off a show two hours after their stage time on Thursday.

Fans were still waiting for the band to play at the Electric Ballroom in Camden when, at 23:30 BST, they were told the gig would not be going ahead.

The NME reported fans were told it was due to a "medical situation".

Many expressed concern the singer had suffered a setback in his long battle with substance abuse.

But a post on the band's Facebook page said: "We can assure everyone that Peter is safe.

"Clearly this is a very private matter in many respects, but we also feel it necessary to let people know he is ok."

An earlier post said that, "due to unforeseen circumstances", a further show in Manchester was being postponed.

"Peter, Carl, John and Gary apologise whole heartedly to their fans and will reschedule both shows as soon as possible. This will not effect any of The Libertines other commitments," the post concluded.

'Gutted'

Doherty has had a long history of addiction but has spoken recently about getting clean.

After Thursday's gig was cancelled fans posted messages of concern to the Libertines' Facebook group.

Helen Moore said: "Our thoughts must be with Pete's wellbeing, the band, his family, his friends"; while Ben Holland wrote: "Absolutely gutted. Clearly something bad has happened, I just hope it's not what everyone is fearing it is. I've waited 11 years to see them again so I can wait a bit longer."

Other fans posted angry messages about being left with no information.

Mike Gordon posted: "My biggest issue last night was the complete lack of communication until after the bar had shut. Something could and should have been communicated earlier when it became obvious there was a problem."

Amy Smith pointed it out it wasn't the first time this has happened: "I've had tickets to shows he [frontman Pete Doherty] has been four hours late for, cancelled on route to the venue and cancelled at last minute with no reason at all.

"I do hope this is a genuine case but time after time when this happens, fans are never given a proper explanation and told that's just the Pete/The libertines."

The band's comeback third album Anthems For Doomed Youth is released on Friday.

It is their first record in nine years, and comes after a celebrated appearance at the Glastonbury Festival in June.

The Libertines originally split up in 2004, with Pete Doherty and Carl Barat pursuing separate careers with their bands Babyshambles and Dirty Pretty Things.

They reunited briefly for the Reading and Leeds festivals in 2010; but announced an official reformation after playing London's Hyde Park last year.

They band have been playing a number of smaller shows and surprise gigs in the lead up to their album release.

Dates for the rescheduled gigs have not been confirmed.