HUNDREDS of sailors were treated to an exclusive concert by Dire Straits legend John Illsley and his band of musicians.

The performance was the highlight of a summer party at the award-winning Buckler's Hard Yacht Harbour, which caters for berth and mooring holders on the Beaulieu River.

A stage was erected inside the marina’s boat shed.

Hundreds took to the dance floor and sang along with familiar hits before enjoying a Knight Frank-sponsored firework finale on the banks of the river.

Daily Echo: The concert was the highlight of a summer party held at the Buckler's Hard Yacht HarbourThe concert was the highlight of a summer party held at the Buckler's Hard Yacht Harbour (Image: Beaulieu Estate)

Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: "We booked John Illsley and his band a year in advance to secure this amazing performance for our mooring holders. They said it was the best party ever and felt privileged to watch him live.

"Everyone loved getting together and said how much they enjoyed the sense of community it created, as well as watching the legendary performer."

John Illsley, co-founder of Dire Straits, lives a few miles from Buckler's Hard.

Daily Echo: Buckler's Hard is a former shipbuilding centre on the banks of the Beaulieu River, which is owned by the Montagu familyBuckler's Hard is a former shipbuilding centre on the banks of the Beaulieu River, which is owned by the Montagu family (Image: Newsquest.)