A car belonging to Teesside singer Chris Rea, of 'Driving Home for Christmas' fame, was among cars of the stars that were auctioned off recently for £9 million.

Middlesbrough-born Chris Rea's Ferrari Dino GT4 was one of the standout vehicles at the auction, which was hosted by Iconic Auctioneers.

The auction house said the 73-year-old singer's car was bought "some years ago in need of a little TLC," before being fully recommissioned and finished in a Grigio Ferro paint scheme.

The car, which was one of the few GT4 cars with the rear seats removed to provide extra luggage space, sold for £64,125.

Rea is a well-known Ferrari and motor racing enthusiast, and has owned several classic cars over the years.

A Land Rover Defender, once owned by director Guy Ritchie, was also among the star cars at the auction.

The specially commissioned, 6.2-litre V8-powered 110 motor, which was finished in an eye-catching green colour, sold for £84,375.

(Image: Alan Kenny at Iconic Auctioneers) Most read

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However, other cars fetched much higher sums, with a 1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth Lux setting a new live auction world record after selling for £202,500.

The right-hand-drive car is equipped with a variety of luxuries, including an electric sunroof, heated windscreen, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Other highlights included a Group A touring car Sierra RS500 driven by Tim Harvey, which fetched £309,375, and two Ford RS200s, which sold for £236,250 and £247,500 respectively.

Nick Whale, chairman of Iconic Auctioneers, said: "It is no secret that the classic car market had stagnated for the earlier part of this year, so it was fantastic to see that post the UK election and budget that the market is picking up.

"The NEC is always a strong sale for us, but it was great to see in the 40th year of the show, it being so busy and there being a great buzz of excitement in the air again."