Mr Doherty refused to comment on rumours he is to marry

The singer attended a review of a drug treatment order before District Judge Jane McIvor at Thames Magistrates' Court in east London.

She told the 27-year-old that he does not need to be reviewed as often.

Mr Doherty was ordered to take part in a treatment programme after admitting drug possession charges in April 2006.

The judge told Mr Doherty that his doctor had referred to the "great effort" he was making to beat his addiction.

"But it's a long process and there is another nine months to go," she said.

"This is more optimistic but we cannot take the pressure off. It takes day-to-day effort."

'Coherent state'

Defence counsel Bruce Clark agreed that Doherty's progress was "encouraging".

"Most people would have failed by now," he told the judge.

Mr Doherty was ordered to return to court for another review on 18 April.

Speaking as he left court, Mr Doherty said it had not been easy trying to give up drugs.

"For the first time I am actually turning up for appointments in a coherent state. For them, it's a big step," he said.

"It's just a really positive time for me at the moment."

Mr Doherty refused to comment on rumours that he and model girlfriend Kate Moss are due to get married this week.

Speculation over their wedding has been rife since it was reported had taken part in a ceremony on a Thai beach. It was later denied by her spokesman.