AN exceptionally rare and original manuscript of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets has been donated to a local charity to help raise funds at auction.

North Devon Hospice was donated this rare item by a local supporter and are now the owners of one of around 100 known copies in existence worldwide.

This unique manuscript will be auctioned by the prestigious Bonhams auction house on Wednesday, November 20 live from Knightsbridge, London, and online via the Bonhams website.

A rare and desirable piece of Potter history, the manuscript has been given an estimated auction value between £3,000 and £5,000 and is expected to draw considerable interest from Harry Potter collectors and fans around the world. Funds raised from the sale will help to fund the vital care and support provided by North Devon Hospice to local patients and families facing cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

The manuscript, which is in great condition, brought the biggest smiles to the faces of the hospice’s Retail Team after they realised what an extraordinary find this was.

Shelley Dayman, e-commerce team lead at North Devon Hospice, said: "We couldn’t believe it when we discovered that this was an original Chamber of Secrets manuscript!

“It’s truly a treasure, and knowing the potential it has to raise significant funds for the hospice is amazing. We’re hopeful that the auction will attract great interest, as every pound will ensure we can continue providing care for local families at a time when they really do need it most. A huge thank you to the person who donated it for making this exciting opportunity possible."

North Devon Hospice cares for almost 3,000 local patients and families every year, offering vital support in people’s homes and on their specialist Bedded Unit in Barnstaple to those facing the impacts of a life-limiting illness. The funds raised from the auction will make a real difference to local people experiencing their toughest times explains Daren Ainscough, head of retail at North Devon Hospice.

“It’s not often that we get an opportunity like this to raise funds through such a unique and collectable item,” said Daren. “We’re so excited to see this manuscript go to auction! Whatever it sells for, the money raised will mean we can be here to scoop up families and provide care, comfort, and reassurance to everyone who needs it.”