Richie Sambora used the band’s gig in Colorado on Monday night to thank his fans for their continued support throughout his personal troubles. The Living On A Prayer hitmaker’s appearance at the Denver gig was his first public outing since he was arrested for driving under the influence in California last Tuesday.

As the concert neared its end, frontman Jon Bon Jovi introduced Sambora to the crowd before letting him take the limelight as he left the stage. And the guitarist – who was admitted to rehab last year following a battle with alcoholism – used the time to express his gratitude for his fans’ devotion.

He told the audience: “Hello Denver. I just want to thank everyone for their support. Sometimes friends need the help of their friends to get by.” Sambora is due in court for arraignment on May 7th.