Babyshambles' instruments given to charity

INSTRUMENTS belonging to Babyshambles that were seized after noise complaints is to be given to charity.

Two guitars, a bass guitar, three amps and a drum kit were taken by Islington Council in north London during a gig at local pub, the Duke of Clarence, in 2005.

The equipment, which also includes a harmonica, a melodica and a speaker, has been in storage ever since having gone unclaimed.

But it will all be given to the council's EC1 Music Project which is aimed at children between the ages of 8 to 19.

Jan Hart, Islington Council's assistant director for public protection, said seizing the instruments was "the only way of stopping the nuisance to our neighbours, which is our top priority".

She added: "Now it's going to a good home and will help young people just starting out with music."

Former Babyshambles member, Patrick Walden, has agreed to hold a workshop for the project in return for one of his guitars.

Walden said: "It's a very positive environment and I'm looking forward to working with the young people."