DUBLIN, Ireland, March 29 (UPI) -- You can't call him "sir," but Britain's queen made U2's Bono an honorary knight in Ireland Thursday for his humanitarian work and service to music.
British Ambassador David Reddaway made the presentation in Dublin on behalf of Queen Elizabeth, it was reported on the Irish rocker's Web site.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair in a letter described Bono as an inspiration in the fight against global poverty and described himself as a "huge fan" of U2's music.
Bono said it was a "great year for an Irishman to receive an award from Great Britain."
"The peace process has proceeded to a conclusion, debt cancellation -- started in Great Britain -- has put 20 million African children in school, The Happy Mondays and Shaun Ryder have reformed, England's rugby squad entered Croke Park to thunderous applause, silence for 'God Save The Queen,' then the Irish hammered them," Bono said.
Afterward, a proud Bono joked with reporters that "you can call me pretty much anything you want, except sir. You can call me lord of lords or a demi-god." Because he is not a British citizen the award is honorary, without the "sir" attachment, the BBC reported.
Bandmates, family and friends joined Bono for the private ceremony.
