Clapton guitar auction to be held this week

A selection of rock legend Eric Clapton's guitars are to be auctioned to benefit his Crossroads rehabilitation centre in the Caribbean, it has been announced.

The instruments will go on the block this week at Bonhams New York City headquarters, according to a statement on the auction house's website.

A preview of the slate of items was held earlier this year, but the collection of the musician's personal belongings is officially going up for sale on Wednesday.

Among the more-than 70 guitars to be sold is a replica of the musician's famed 'Blackie' Stratocaster, which is expected to fetch more than $20,000 (£12,300).

In an official statement, the acclaimed guitarist explained that he is proud to be able to be raising funds to aid those struggling with addiction.

"I am very happy that Bonhams have agreed to host my third guitar auction in aid of The Crossroads Centre, Antigua, the drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre I founded in 1998," he said.

Clapton founded the Crossroads Centre in Antigua more than 13 years ago after overcoming his own battles with substance abuse.

The musician has released nearly two-dozen solo albums over the course of his career.