A HANDWRITTEN letter by the famed Lake District children's author Beatrix Potter has sold for £1,800.

It was written on August 30, 1937 to the mayor of Kendal to tell him she would look after the town's last working loom which she had just bought.

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In the note, she also congratulates Councillor Henry Airey on the town's purchase of a prayer book once owned by Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII.

The lot, which included the letter, a copy of the prayer book and photographs of the book presentation ceremony, was valued at approximately £1,500 and was sold to an unknown buyer by 1818 Auctioneers today.

The items were sold by Cllr Airey's great grandson who wanted them to go to a new appreciative home.

Written on fine tissue paper, Beatrix Heelis (nee Potter) starts the letter by saying "you may remember my name".

Valuer David Brookes, from 1818 Auctioneers, praised the piece.

He said: "The two-sided letter is a delight to read.

"It is full of wit and reinforces Beatrix Potter's passion for and commitment to preserving local skills and traditions."