NORTH-EAST guitar legend Mark Knopfler has been forced to cancel his European tour following a motorbike accident.
The 53-year-old Dire Straits star broke his collarbone and six ribs in the collision last month.
He had been due to begin his tour in Lisbon, Portugal, in three weeks' time and to play eight dates in Britain at the beginning of June.
But his record company, Mercury, said in a statement: ''Owing to injuries sustained in his recent motorbike accident, and acting on medical advice, Mark Knopfler has reluctantly been forced to cancel all shows on his proposed tour.
''Mark is obviously bitterly disappointed and would like to thank the fans who have sent him get well messages.''
The British leg of the tour was due to begin with four dates at London's Royal Albert Hall followed by concerts in Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Birmingham.
Fans who have already bought tickets will get full refunds.
Knopfler was knocked from his Honda motorbike on March 17 when it collided with a Fiat Punto in Belgravia, central London. The woman driver was un- hurt.
The star was treated at St Thomas' Hospital before being discharged.
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