A JAMES Bond fanatic who has built up a valuable collection of rare posters and books is hoping to sell them for thousands of pounds at auction

Marc Slattery fell in love with the films when his dad Maurice took him to see Diamonds are Forever when he was seven and he has since build up a huge array of original items.

Among the pieces going on sale are posters for the likes of Live and Let Die and his favourite film On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

The 51-year-old has built up his collection at his home in Eaton Road, Hove but is now hoping all 82 lots will make him a combined total of up to £40,000.

"It's a lifetime collection," he said.

"It's a stage in my life that will be closing."

In 1973 Marc saw Live And Let Die at the Odeon Leicester Square and his collecting started.

He said: "I had a programme bought for me.

"The Man With The Golden Gun was a Christmas treat where I was given the opportunity of either a programme or chocolates. The programme won out hands down, with this one being an actual fold out poster that I could hang on my bedroom wall with pride.

"On Bonfire Night 1974 I was given a choice of Bond or fireworks, the double bill won. On Her Majesty's Secret Service was showing as a double bill with Live and Let Die. I remember the lump in my throat at the film end, having goosebumps even now."

Marc is hoping his friend Terence Mountain from Littlehampton will bring him good luck.

The 79-year-old appeared in On Her Majesty's Secret Service and Diamonds are Forever.

The extensive collection will be appearing at COYS auctioneers in Lindley Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster tomorrow, Tuesday, December 1.

For more information visit www.coys.co.uk