A rare ceramic duck was sold for a small fortune after being found in Shrewsbury.

The duck, by British designer Gilbert Bayes, was being used as a doorstop when found by BBC antiques expert and auctioneer, Christina Trevanion.

Ms Trevanion from Whitchurch said: "I walked in, and almost tripped over him.

"He was lying on his side propping open a door, so I immediately picked him up and moved him away from the door."

The duck is not a doorstop, but a stoneware finial designed by Mr Bayes in the 1930s and manufactured by Royal Doulton.

It was made for the Athlone Estate in Kentish Town, London.

Ms Trevanion said: "Gilbert Bayes was determined to bring art into the lives of the residents living on the estate, so he created a series of charming animal finials for the communal garden washing line support posts.

"Sadly, accidents and new building led to the loss of the majority of the finials, and they’re now extremely rare."

Despite extensive damage, the duck was auctioned by Trevanion Auctioneers in September.

Bidders quickly drove the price past the high estimate to a sale price of £3,800 plus fees.

Ms Trevanion said: "We had international interest in the piece both online and on the telephone, but he finally came home to roost and found a new home with a very happy UK collector."

Trevanion Auctioneers will hold their next auction on October 16.

The deadline for entries is September 27.

To book a valuation appointment or home visit, call 01948 800202.