A small collection of £1 notes from the early 20th century have sold for more than £10,000 at auction.

The five banknotes were dated between 1908 and 1918 and had signatures from the bank's accountant and cashier, which increased their value.

The anonymous seller from Falkirk was said to have been left speechless by the sale of the notes.

Telephone and online bidders from around the world competed for the notes at McTear's Auction House in Glasgow.

Sarah Cotter, head of jewellery, watches and coins at McTear's, said: "The notes were in a worn condition and the seller didn't really have any great expectations when he brought them in.

"Needless to say he got a bit of a shock when the auction started and the bids got higher and higher.

"It can be hard to imagine banknotes selling for several thousand times their face value, but rare notes like these are hugely desirable, with collectors across the globe willing to pay significant sums to acquire them.

"We know from experience that there are old coins and banknotes hidden at the back of drawers and cupboards in households across the country, so it is definitely worthwhile taking a bit of time to have a look.

"You never know, that old note may be worth considerably more than the number on the front."