Autographs from some of the 20th century’s most famous names - ranging from the Beatles to Chairman Mao - have sold for a combined £78k at auction.

The collection - which also included signatures from rock band Nirvana and Mahatma Gandhi - went on Wednesday at a sale in Berkshire.

The haul was owned by the late Franz-Peter Bach, a German collector who would follow music tours during the 80s and write directly to the addresses of celebrities.

Peter Mason, of Dawson’s Auctioneers, said, “In the modern age of ‘selfies’, it is a reminder of the time when autograph hunting could become a life-long passion.”

Mr Bach’s estate will also be donating a portion the funds raised to charities in his native Germany.

A signed photograph of Chinese leader Mao Zedong - known as Chairman Mao - went for the highest individual amount, £22,000.

A book of Jim Morrison’s poetry - signed by The Doors frontman - went for the second highest price of £6,000.

A card signed 'love from' by all the Beatles - John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr - went for £5,500.

A CD of Nirvana's 'Nevermind' album was sold for £5,000.

And note signed by Mahatma Gandhi dated "Rome 12/12/31", the same date as his meeting with Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, went for £2,000.