A RARE camera used by the Germans during the Second World War is expected to spark a lot of interest at an auction later this month.

The Leica camera, hand-painted blue-grey and used by the German military, will go under the hammer at Tennants auctioneers, in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.

Camera consultant Mike Hughes said the rare equipment, with a shutter designed specifically for use in cold climates, had caused a bit of excitement in the auction house.

"We have already had an offer of £1,000 for it to be sold before auction - but is part of the next big sale and we are expecting it to reach £1,500," he said.

The camera, which has a letter K at the end of its serial number denoting its use in the army, was given to Tennants by a local woman. It belonged to her Polish father, Dr A Woroncow, who worked with the RAF during the war.

The auction will also see four different Hasselblad cameras up for sale, as well as a Hasselblad linear mirror unit, of which there are only six known to be in existence. Darkroom equipment, Leica M6 and M5s in immaculate condition and special lenses will also be part of the auction.

Viewing will take place on Friday, June 13, between 9.30am and 7pm, and on Saturday, June 14, from 9am until the sale starts at noon.