An auction of antiques which once adorned the home of disgraced politician Jonathan Aitken has raised nearly £16,000.

Thirty-eight of his possessions were sold during the three-day event at Gorringes in Lewes, which ended yesterday.

The items included an 18th century Dutch oil painting, a Louis XVI-style clock, furniture, carpets, rugs and a number of silver items.

All of the 38 lots came from Mr Aitken's former home in Lord North Street, central London.

He was forced to sell his possessions when declared bankrupt following a failed libel action against The Guardian and Granada TV's World in Action programme.

He was later jailed for 18 months for perjury.

Clifford Lansbury, of Gorringes, said: "Mr Aitken's antiques went for what they were worth, apart from his christening cup, which fetched £320 primarily due to its connection with him."

Another auction of Mr Aitken's possessions will take place at Gorringes in June.