Music
Rex Features
The band have claimed the incident was not drug related and that Doherty's reasons were legitimate.
Bassist Drew McConnell told NME: "There's a legitimate reason why he couldn't make it.
"It's not anything to do with drugs being taken, put it like that. He's our best mate and a recovering addict. It wasn't right for him to come out tonight."
McConnell and drummer Adam Ficek played the gig without Doherty or guitarist Mik Whitnall, and at one point got a member of the audience to come on stage and perform vocals for the band.
He added: "We enjoy playing all the tunes, but we miss our boys. We fly the flag for the 'Shambles!"
More: Music
Singles Reviews
Darren Hayes: 'Bloodstained Heart' review Hayes continues his pursuit for old-fashioned romanticism.
The Sound
Whitney Houston: Best live performancesWhitney Houston was always one for the big occasion. We take a look at her best live performances.
Music Interviews
Adam Lambert eyes Jessie J collaborationDigital Spy talks to the singer about his new album 'Trespassing'.
Album Reviews
Speech Debelle: 'Freedom of Speech'Speech Debelle storms back with her second album Freedom of Speech.
