James Bond Aston Martin fails to make antiques valuation

The Aston Martin DB5 used by James Bond has failed to meet its antiques valuation but still managed to sell for £2.6 million.

The motor - which appeared in the Goldfinger and Thunderball films - went under the hammer at the Battersea Evolution in London, but had been expected to go for more than £3 million.

It was driven by Sir Sean Connery - who also appeared in You Only Live Twice and Diamonds Are Forever - in both its silver screen appearances and was previously purchased by US broadcasting boss Jerry Lee in 1969 for $12,000 (£7,530).

Lee said that the vehicle brought him 40 years of enjoyment, adding: "Even as I sell it and use the proceeds to fund The Jerry Lee Foundation, the car will continue to give me great pleasure as it furthers the mission of the foundation to do good around the world."

Posted by Keith Leicester