JiltedJim writes:

There is a story in today's NME following up the classified ad in last week's issue advertising the sale of Andy Rourke's royalty stream, as well as a few more snippets of Smiths information.

Here is a transcription (How nice of NME to steal from Word magazine's exclusive interview, and not even mention the magazine once!):

Ex-Smiths bassist Andy Rourke is seeking legal advice after an advert appeared in NME offering his royalty stream for sale.

Back in 1999, the Smiths bassist was declared bankrupt. 'The Works' classical ads section in last week's NME carried an advert which read: "The trustee in bankruptcy of Andrew Michael Rourke (formerly of 'The Smiths') wishes to sell Mr. Rourke's royalty stream." Readers were given the name and address of a Manchester law firm, who are handling enquiries.

NME contacted Rourke's manager, who said that the advert for royalties came as a "surprise" to both the bassist and management. "Basically, we are taking legal advice on the position and that's all I can say" he told NME.

NME contacted Turner Parkinson solicitors - the legal firm who placed the ad - for an explanation as to what exactly a Smiths fan would be getting if they shelled out the cash, but none was forthcoming as we went to press.

In other Smiths news, Morrissey has given a rare interview in which he ruled out any reunion because of his dire relationship with drummer Mike Joyce. But he said that had it not been for guitarist Johnny Marr's "dreadful decision" to leave the band, they could've made 20 albums.

He said "Johnny made a dreadful decision and I think he's spent the last 13 years trying to justify it... I don't see how we could or would make music together again."

Don't miss the june 7 issue of NME which comes with a free magazine dedicated to the Smiths.
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• Related item: Andy Rourke's royalty stream for sale in NME classifieds (10 May 2003) - May 9, 2003