A ROLLS Royce, which was owned by Lord Mountbatten, and used for his countless journeys from Romsey to London, is up for auction on Tuesday.

The 1929/30 Rolls Royce 40-50 hp Phantom II Sedanbca de Ville still carries Lord Mountbatten's personalised number plate LM 3698 (his initials plus his old telephone number in Mayfair).

The grey and black car is described as in "beautiful" condition by auctioneers Bonhams, who will be selling it at Olympia with a price guide of between £65,000 and £75,000. It is said to be the last model designed by Henry Royce himself and a spokesperson for Bonhams said: "It is presented in good condition and offered with a most extensive history file."

That file includes letters from Lord Mountbatten and his family, Rolls Royce and the present owner, who is not named but is based in England. Early photographs, the original log book and numerous restoration invoices are included with the car, which arrived at Olympia yesterday (Thursday) in readiness for the sale.

One of the special features of the car is seating which folds down into a bed which was used by Lord Mountbatten to rest on journeys back to Broadlands from London. Lord Louis eventually sold to Mr C G Pullin of Ampfield .