A genuine Second World War Spitfire is to be auctioned on the internet.

Billed as the perfect gift for the man who has everything, the rare piece of military history is expected to fetch more than £1 million.

According to auction site eBay.co.uk, the Griffon-engined Spitfire Mk XVIII, built in 1945, has been restored to mint condition.

Bids will start at £200,000 and the aircraft will be sold with appropriate professional conversion training, provided the prospective pilot has the relevant basic piloting skills.

Chris Betson, general manager of Historic Flying, said: "With only 60 Spitfires left in the world, and only 30 in flying condition, this is a rare chance to buy and enjoy the unobtainable. It's one of the world's great aircraft and a true slice of British history."