Royal underwear sold for £360

Queen Victoria's bloomers, personal gifts from Princess Diana and a piece of cake from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding were all sold at an auction for royal memorabilia earlier this week.

The auction was held in Colchester, Essex and attracted royal collectors from across the UK.

The Queen's underwear was sold for £360 to a collector from Braintree.

James Grinter, from Reeman Dansie auctioneers, said that people liked to collect clothing due to their personal appeal.

Grinter said: "You can't get more personal than royal pants."

He added: "We commented that Queen Victoria would not have been amused - they were enormous and very rare."

Earlier this year, knickers reportedly belonging to Queen Elizabeth II, went up for sale on eBay.