Victorian petrol pumps, dentistry equipment and skiing snowmen - the perfect Christmas gift for the person who likes something which is just that little bit unusual.

Yesterday (Wednesday), there were certainly a few unique curiosities on offer at the Reeman Dansie Howe & Son's Christmas Specialist Collector's Sale which saw £30,000 change hands during five hours of bidding.

Enthusiastic collectors packed the auction house at Headgate, Colchester, to bid for an amazing 800 lots, which included medals, militaria, toys, stamps and postcards.

Michael Bowles, collectables consultant at the auction house, said: "The place was absolutely crammed. The sale made £30,000. It was a bumper year, a very good sale.

"Unfortunately, the Victorian petrol pumps did not reach their reserve price, but the skiing snowmen went for £410. It has been an excellent day, but very tiring."

A collection of pens and other related objects auctioned on behalf of a Children In Need raised some £400 for the charity, while Bramley Hedge collectors' plates went for £200.

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