THE sale of a rare 19th-century toy book will benefit a Hexham-based charity.

Seven miniature booklets in French from a series of tales titled Les Portes Fermées Ou Les Doubles Surprises were found in donations to Tynedale Hospice at Home.

The nearly 200-year-old book - one of only four known to exist - has now sold for £1,600. The book had been estimated to sell for between £200-300.

Director of Newcastle-based Anderson & Garland Auctioneers, Fred Wyrley-Birch, described the find as "one of most extraordinary books offered for sale".

Concealed behind a flap on each cover are illustrations of the particular story and when the pages are held up to the light, a secret picture is revealed.

Charlotte Pearson, Deputy CEO of Tynedale Hospice at Home, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to hear how much these rare books sold for at auction. We didn’t know the potential value or how significant this find was. 

"Proceeds from the sale will directly support families in our community who need access to our vital care services. We are incredibly grateful to receive such an extraordinary donation.”

It remains a mystery how the donor came into possession of the book.

Tynedale Hospice at Home offers pre and post-bereavement support for children, adults and families, a hospital transport service and end-of-life nursing care in the home.