Nelson's possessions up for sale

The Nelson memorabilia dates back to between 1750 and 1814

Memorabilia associated with Trafalgar legend Lord Nelson will be auctioned off, with many artefacts expected to fetch thousands of pounds.

The sale at Lewes Town Hall on Tuesday is hoping to attract hundreds of naval enthusiasts from across the UK.

The auction items date back to between 1750 and 1814 and include pieces directly linked to Nelson himself, such as a fork with his coat of arms.

Other relics include punishment items including the "Deserters Stamp".

Sailors who tried to run away were stamped with small needles in the shape of the letter 'D' and gunpowder was then rubbed into it to make it permanent like a tattoo.

Auctioneer Roy Butler said personal items like Nelson's knife and folk were expected to do well.

"I think he (Nelson) would have loved it - he like the pomp and the glory."

The items will be auctioned off by Wallis and Wallis at the town's assembly room.