A RARE collection of whisky from around the world is expected to fetch more £20,000 when it goes under the hammer on Tuesday, 20 June, at 1818 Auctioneers, near Crooklands.

All but six of the 199 lots belong to a Lancashire collector and include single bottles that could make up to £800 each.

There is a stoneware decanter of Catto's Gold Label whisky, a souvenir from the Royal visit to New Zealand in 1953, which is estimated at £600 to £800.

Also on offer is a 30-year-old bottle of Scottish whisky, Chivas Regal Chairman's Reserve, which comes in a Baccarat glass decanter and is estimated at £400 to £600.

Bottles of Islay's Bowmore Sea Dragon 30-year-old single malt whisky in coloured ceramic decanters and flagons are likely to make £500 to £700 each.

Other highlights include a bottle of 25-year-old Aberlour pure single highland malt, which could make between £400 to £600 and a St Andrew’s 21-year-old 'the champion' black ceramic claret jug and a Wade blue ceramic golf ball whisky decanter, estimated between £150 and £200.

The auction has been catalogued by 1818 Auctioneer's expert valuer, Ken Payne.

He said: “ It’s a fascinating collection of whisky and it’s been a pleasure putting it together.”

Auctioneer David Hunter, from 1818 Auctioneers, added: “The sale features examples from around the world including the better known Scottish ones.

“The market has grown over the last few years and new records are being set all the time.

“Last year a rare bottle of Glenfiddich whisky sold for £68,500.

“Collecting is seen as an alternative way to invest and make money while interest rates remain low, so we are expecting a lot of interest in the sale, including from overseas buyers who will join the live auction and bid online.”

The catalogue is available online at www.1818auctioneers.co.uk and the sale can be viewed on Friday 16 June between 2pm and 4pm, on Saturday 17 June between 10am and 1pm and also on the morning of the sale from 8.30am.