Knopfler cancels tour after crash

Knopfler cancels tour after crash

Knopfler was planning a solo tour

Singer and guitarist Mark Knopfler has cancelled his European tour after being hurt in a motorbike accident.

The 53-year-old former Dire Straits frontman broke his collar bone and six ribs in the crash last month.

He had been due to begin the tour in Lisbon in three weeks' time and play eight dates in Britain at the beginning of June.

His record company Mercury said he had been reluctant to pull out, but had made his decision on medical advice.

"Mark is obviously bitterly disappointed and would like to thank the fans who have sent him get well messages," it said in a statement.

The British leg of the tour was due to begin with four dates at the Royal Albert Hall in London, followed by shows in Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Birmingham.

Fans who have already bought tickets have been promised full refunds.

Knopfler was riding a Honda motorbike on 17 March when he was involved in a collision with a Fiat Punto in Belgravia, central London.