Johnny Marr's Smiths reform refusal

Dec 16, 2008, 4:00 GMT

The Smiths are not reforming.

The iconic British band's former guitarist Johnny Marr has insisted there are no plans for the 80s group to reunite, despite recent reports.

Johnny - who is currently a member of indie group The Cribs - told NME.com: "The stories circulating about a Smiths reunion are, as usual, untrue.

"I'm currently very excited about writing and recording with The Cribs for a new album to be released next summer and we're playing shows in February, so going back in time isn't in my plans."

Rumours The Smiths were to reunite were sparked after Johnny and former frontman Morrissey ended their bitter feud dating back to the guitarist's departure in 1987.

A source said: "The very fact they are talking again is the most hopeful thing in years. The industry has been buoyant with talk of them getting back together.

"A lot of people think of them as the best thing since The Beatles. They'd fill stadiums many times over."

The pair recently teamed up to put together compilation album 'The Sound Of The Smiths' - which was given its title by Morrissey and digitally updated by the guitarist - featuring a mixture of singles and rarities.

The Smiths - which also included bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce - had nine top 20 singles after forming in 1982.