A CHINESE vase owned by a Poole family attracted worldwide bidding before selling at auction for £3,450, it has been revealed.

The same family also sold a Chinese blue and white figure and a small green glazed glass for a combined £1,725, netting them a total of £5,175 from the sale.

Wareham’s Cottees auctioneer John Condie said the antiques sale provided a welcome surprise for the two vendors, who have asked not to be identified.

Mr Condie told the Daily Echo: “After a high for Chinese ceramics a few years ago, things have levelled off now but the market still remains strong on the Chinese mainland and we are able to reach this market by selling online.”

Cottees next specialist sales will be militaria on April 16.