Memorabilia auction raises £20,000

An auction of Stan Laurel memorabilia has raised more than £20,000 for his 81-year-old nephew.

Huntley Jefferson Woods, who had expected to get just £5,000 for the collection of photographs and other items, said he was surprised by the outcome.

"I always feel a loss to part with things like this, but I am 81, and as I get older the collection becomes more difficult to look after.

"I was worried what would happen when I pass on, and at least they have been sold to collectors who will care for them."

Auctioneer John Anderson added: “It was something of a sensation, Laurel and Hardy just seem to command non-dwindling support and indeed seem to speak to a younger generation.

The most expensive item at the sale was an inscribed silver hip flask Laurel got from his father, which fetched £2,100

A 1930 photograph of Laurel and Hardy together, inscribed by Laurel to his sister, was sold to a private collector for £1,350.

Published: 2 Jul 2004