Clapton to auction guitars

Rock legend Eric Clapton is parting with dozens of guitars and amps at a New York auction to benefit an alcohol and drug treatment centre he founded in Antigua.

New York-Bonhams will offer the 70 guitars and 70 amps next Wednesday.

Among the highlights is a custom-made black Fender ’Eric Clapton’ signature Stratocaster, estimated at $20,000 to $30,000. It was used during the “Cream Reunion Shows” in New York and London in 2005.

A pair of 1970 Marshall vintage basket weave speaker cabinets are expected to fetch $8,000-$10,000.

The 65-year-old rock Hall of Famer is a recovered addict who established the non-profit Crossroads Centre in West Indies in 1998.

His classic love song “Layla” was released in 1970 when he appeared with blues-rock band Derek and The Dominos.