Seized Babyshambles kit donated

The equipment was seized after noise complaints from neighbours

Musical equipment seized from a north London pub during a noisy gig by the band Babyshambles will be donated to a local youth charity.

Islington council seized the items during a gig at the Duke of Clarence, Rotherfield Street, in August 2005.

The kit, which includes two guitars, three amplifiers, a bass, a speaker, melodica and harmonica are being given to the council's EC1 Music Project.

Guitarist Patrick Walden agreed to hold a workshop in return for his guitar.

The equipment of the band, fronted by Pete Doherty, was seized from the pub at 0030 BST by the council's noise patrol after complaints from residents.

'Good home'

The instruments that have not been claimed back are to be given to the music project designed for 8 to 19-year-olds in the borough, on Wednesday.

Describing confiscation as a rare step by the local authority Jan Hart, Islington Council's assistant director for public protection, said: "It was the only way of stopping the nuisance to our neighbours, which is our top priority.

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

Ex-Babyshambles guitarist Patrick Walden, who is holding the first of his workshops, said he was "happy" to be involved with the project.

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