Former Dirty Pretty Things bassist Didz Hammond has insited that the band didn't split up in order for the Libertines to reform.

Dirty Pretty Things, fronted by former Libertines star Carl Barat, announced yesterday that it was “with some sadness” that they were to part ways.

Speaking to BBC 6Music, Hammond said Barat had no plans to reunite with Pete Doherty to restart the Libertines.

Although he added: “Never say never - but certainly not for the forseebale future.”

Hammond, a former member of the Cooper Temple Clause, said the group had decided to “call it a day” after having a “little chat” last week.

In addition to other projects, he said Barat “would quite like some time out to plan his next move.”

The band, who released two albums, will still honour their forthcoming UK and Ireland tour, which is due to end in Dublin in November.

Although “reluctant” to give up touring, they had promised to “give the last waltz everything”.

(by Jason Gregory)