A Wolverhampton music shop has been named as one of the top 50 guitar retailers in Great Britain and Ireland.

The prestigious award to One Way Music in Salop Street has been made by top guitar manufacturer Fender.

Roger Clarke, who has run the store since it opened 26 years ago next month said today: “It is the perfect birthday present.”

Mr Clarke, who has played the instrument himself for over 50 years and performed with the groups The Californians and Charade, added:

“The market in general is a little depressed at the moment but the guitar is still the big thing. It has been pretty good to us over the years and interest does not show any sign of slowing down.

“As long as we have bands on TV playing guitars then that is unlikely to change particularly since, after the triangle, it is probably the easiest instrument to make a noise that sounds musical although it is as difficult as any to learn to play properly.

“There was a time when everybody wanted to be a DJ instead of Eric Clapton but the guitar and musical instruments in general are back.

“We cannot compete for price with some of the internet sites but we make up for that with customer care and our guarantee not to charge for labour on the regular servicing we offer to guitars bought from us.

“Our pledge is not to discount on our prices or our service and Fender obviously appreciate the work we are doing in selling and maintaining their guitars. We are delighted that this has been recognised with this award.”