Amy Winehouse has finally begun medical treatment for drug problems after cancelling all her concerts and appearing publicly in a state of distress.

The singer, who has admitted heroin use, hit a downward spiral after her husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, 25, was remanded in Pentonville prison awaiting trial on charges of assault and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

A spokesman for her said: “After cancelling the remaining dates of her UK tour, due to physical and emotional strain, Amy Winehouse has been under the care of physicians. Amy and her family ask that her privacy is respected during this difficult time.”

Winehouse has complained about the publication of a picture of her in the back of a car with packages of what one report described as “white stuff”. Her spokesman said: “They were in fact the driver’s hand towels. It is standard practice for drivers to use these towels to wipe down windows and doors after rain. These towels are in the driver’s car at all times when he drives his clients. Any implication or suggestion otherwise would be unfair.”

Paparazzi harassment was blamed for a recent incident where Winehouse, 24, was said to have been found wandering the streets late at night barefoot in just a bra and jeans. The spokesman said: “The constant bombardment by certain agency photographers at her home has increased anxiety and caused disturbance.”

Winehouse is being helped in her battle against drugs by the rock singer Pete Doherty, who claims to have beaten crack and heroin addiction.

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