Rare Harry Potter first edition sold for £7,500

A first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, which was donated to a charity shop, has sold for £7,500 at auction.

The book was anonymously donated to an RSPCA shop in the Isle of Wight and will now help fund the branch as well as the animals in their care.

It went under the hammer at Hanson's Auctioneers salesroom in Bishton Hall, Staffordshire.

One of the animals to benefit is another Harry, an 11-month-old dog left in the branch's care.

A store volunteer first noticed the donated book as a possible first edition.

Rebecca Busby of the RSPCA Isle of Wight branch said the volunteer, who was an avid Harry Potter and book enthusiast, checked for all the well known markers and noticed it had them.

"She called me and I could hear her excitement as she said: 'I can't believe it we have a Harry Potter first edition... Please could you find somewhere to sell this, as we can't sell it in the shop.'"

The store called in Jim Spencer, a Harry Potter books expert based at Hansons Auctioneers.

"I am delighted it's raised thousands for such a great cause. As well as securing a strong investment, the buyer can be doubly happy in the knowledge money raised will help animals like Harry," Mr Spencer said.

Ms Busby said the cost of living crisis meant owners struggled to look after their pets and fewer people were adopting.

"We currently have 50 pets in our care - including dogs, cats and rabbits - and due to the cost of living crisis we, like many animal charities, are struggling."

She adds: "I'm sure Harry Potter will help his namesake, Harry the dog, find his magical home and enjoy an amazing new chapter in his life."