GUITARS signed by hit bands including The View, The Specials and The Libertines will go up for auction to raise money for disadvantaged children.

Alan Crossan, the owner of the Clutha Bar, is arranging for the signed instruments to be sold to raise money for the charity he set up following the tragic helicopter crash at his pub.

As the Evening Times has reported, the Clutha Trust aims to help children from less privileged backgrounds break into the music industry.

It is almost a year since a helicopter crashed through the roof of the Clutha, killing 10 people and injuring several others.

In the aftermath of the disaster, which happened at around 10.30pm on Friday November 29 last year, a fund organised by Glasgow City Council for victims raised almost £500,000.

Alan says he wanted to set up the Trust to continue the Clutha's legacy of supporting young musicians.

The Clutha played a major role in Glasgow's music scene, and had a number of high profile fans, including Billy Connolly.

Alan, 61, said: "The charity is keeping my mind focused.

"The amount of support people gave to those affected by the crash has been incredible and I wanted to find a way to channel that.

"The charity will help disadvantaged kids, and it's to help them get into the arts, get into music.

"We've been working with charities like Spirit Aid. We're really trying to create a positive legacy for the kids."

A launch night for the Trust is being held at the Barrowland Ballroom on November 28, featuring singer Sandi Thom and Carly Connor and the Glasgow ska band, Bombskare.

The guitars are expected to be auctioned within the next few weeks, but music lovers can note their interest on the Clutha Facebook page.

Other stars to sign instruments include Irish folk hero Christy Moore and Dunfermline rock band Big Country.

Alan, from Crossmyloof in the South Side, said: "The sale will take place soon, at local auction house Sweeney Kincaid, which has offered to do it free of charge, but punters can note interest on our Facebook page or email thecluthatrust@gmail.com.

"There are eight guitars in total but there's more to be signed. They are being stored at the Barrowland and everyone there has been really helpful.

"We couldn't do it without them. And the bands playing at the Barrowland are always keen to help."

Alan said he was overwhelmed at how many people had offered to help with the Trust.

He added: "We're very grateful."

Alan hopes to rebuild the Clutha next year.

But he said it will never be the same pub.

He said: "It's sad. Every time I go into it I get a horrible feeling.

"Doing something the same would be difficult.

"I think it needs to evolve. Rather than jumping into it, we'll get the Victoria Bar opened. We'll get the back area opened again. It's the right thing to do."

To get tickets for the concert see www.cluthatrust.com

rachel.loxton@eveningtimes.co.uk