VINTAGE dolls sold 'incredibly well' this week in the toy and model sale at Mitchell's Auctions in Cockermouth.

The most valuable lot in the sale was a late 1960s Sasha girl doll with no philtrum, blonde hair, and wearing a brown dress which sold for £1,000 - against an estimate of £400-£600.

However, the biggest surprise was another Sasha Gregor doll with rooted red hair, painted facial features and wearing denim dungarees which sailed past its £80-£120 estimate, eventually selling for £820.

Other dolls also did well including a group of six Pedigree Sindy dolls with an estimate of £60-£80 sold for £170, and a 1960s vintage Barbie & Midge Travel Pals case, with four vinyl dolls, outfits and wigs which made £150 against an estimate of £40-£60.

A large number of Charlie Bears from a private collection were also auctioned including two mother and baby bears 'Grizelle' and 'Grace', which sold for £75.

Mitchells Auctioneer and Toy Specialist Ewan Duff said: "There was a good quantity of toys of all ages up for auction.

"The top-selling Sasha doll was a real talking point during the viewing because of her unusual complexion and dark eyelashes which is one of the reasons why she sold for £1,000.

"But my personal favourite was the Distler tinplate fire engine and fire station which I was pleased to sell for £320, double the original estimate."

READ MORE: 'Rare and historically important harbour scene' painting in Mitchells' auction

Live steam locomotives and stationery engines also did very well.

The most valuable locomotives were a 3.5in gauge live steam locomotive with an estimate of £200-£300 sold for £450 and a 1.5in gauge live steam locomotive and six wheel tender which made £280. 

Other valuable models included a German tinplate fire engine and fire station by Johann Distler, with JDN trademark and an assorted collection of Airfix model kits of military figures and buildings which both made £320.