AN AUCTIONEERS has sold a collection of Agatha Christie first-edition novels, signed and dedicated by the author, for almost £20,000 Kidson-Trigg Auctioneers, which has offices in Highworth, made the sale on Wednesday of the 18 books which had belonged to Charlotte Fisher, who was Agatha’s long-serving and aspirational assistant.

Marc Anderson, auctioneer, said: “When it was known that the consignment had come from such a fantastic source, from the history books of Agatha Christie herself, we knew we would have keen interest, no other examples of such a collection were known to exist.”

The books, while in good condition, were slightly faded and bereft of their original dust jackets.

However, as valuers at Kidson-Trigg expected, this had little bearing on the value, with the collection achieving the best part of £20,000.

Mr Anderson added: “We have since been in touch with the local family who are delighted with the result and have indicated that the rest of the collection is to be consigned over the next couple of weeks.

“It seems that Agatha continues to create suspense, even posthumously.”

For more information on the future sale contact Kidson-Trigg Auctioneers on 01793 861000 or email kidsontriggauctions@ btconnect.com