December 23, 2006 14:25

U2 star to be knighted

But Bono won't be called 'Sir'

Photo Gallery: U2

U2 singer Bono is to be knighted by the Queen in the New Year.

The frontman will be honoured for his humanitarian work and his services to the music industry, which included organising Live 8 with Bob Geldof in 2005.

The 46-year-old will receive the award at a ceremony to be conducted by British ambassador David Reddaway in Dublin.

Despite receiving the honour, he will not be awarded with the title of "Sir" because he is not a British national.

Previous non-British recipients include Bill Gates, Placido Domingo, Rudolf Giuliani, Steven Spielberg and Simon Wiesenthal

According to U2's official website, Bono, who has lobbied Western leaders to increase aid to developing countries and cancel Third World debt, is "very flattered" to receive the honour.

Tony Blair has also sent the U2 singer a letter congratulating him on his knighthood, reports BBC News.

Mr Blair wrote: "I want personally to thank you for the invaluable role you played in the run-up to the Gleneagles G8 summit. Without your personal contribution, we could not have achieved the results we did.

"So thank you and I look forward to continuing to work together to maintain momentum on Africa, and ensure leaders around the world meet the promises they have made."

In 2003 Bono was presented with the Legion D'Honneur by President Jacques Chirac for his contribution to music and his campaign work.

The U2 singer was also awarded the Time Person Of The Year 2005, along with Bill and Melinda Gates in recognition of his work promoting justice and equality.