AN Aston Martin created by Huddersfield businessman Sir David Brown fetched almost £900,000 at auction.

The 50-year-old racing car went under the hammer for £897,773 in Le Mans, France.

It was one of only 31 DB3S models ever made.

Auctioneers Christie's described the unnamed buyer as an "enthusiastic collector".

Earlier estimates were that the car could fetch up to £1m.

Sir David, who died in 1993 aged 89, was one of the most dynamic figures Huddersfield ever produced.

He bought the Aston Martin company in 1947, adding it to an empire which included David Brown Tractors and David Brown Gears.

At their height, his businesses employed 20,000 people worldwide.

The Aston Martin sold yesterday was entered by Sir David in the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race in 1957, where it won its class.

The Aston Martin Owners' Club said the vehicle was prized because of its rarity.