Mark Knopfler guitar raises Dh100,000 for tsunami victims

A guitar designed by Mark Knopfler has raised Dh100,000 after it was auctioned in aid of tsunami victims.

The Fender Stratocaster attracted strong interest after it was auctioned on Radio 2 on Tuesday. Guitar collector Shamil made the winning bid for the instrument, which Knopfler will sign before his Dubai Media City show tonight.

"It is a dream come true and I can't wait to hear my favourite hits being played at the concert," Shamil said.

Shamil, whose favourite Dire Straits tracks are Money for Nothing, Sultans of Swing and Brothers in Arms, will meet Knopfler before he takes the stage. Knopfler is one of the world's most renowned guitar players and has a distinctive plucking technique.

Chris Rose, head of Emirates Radio 1 and 2, said the network had received lots of interest in the guitar.

"We were happy to help raise such a huge amount for a great cause," he said. "Towards the end, the amounts kept jumping up with every call, but the final winning bid was simply unbelievable.

"I'm very grateful that a Radio 2 listener has such a kind heart and deep pockets to donate such a massive amount." The Knopfler guitar normally sells for about Dh14,000.