Anderson: Created Parker for the hit 1960s show

Other highlights of the auction included Dr Evil's costume from the Austin Powers film - sold for �7,500 - and props from Gladiator, Sleepy Hollow and Mission: Impossible.

The sale took place in the London and San Francisco branches of Planet Hollywood simultaneously.

007's dome-topped space age buggy played a key part in the film when Bond jumped into it as he investigated millionaire Willard Whyte's Nevada Desert space centre.

The scene, in which the star was chased by villains, became one of the most famous chase sequences in the Bond films.

But only one buggy was ever built.

Disrepair

It played a key role in marketing the film and was sent around the world to help advertise it.

But after its starring role to plug the film, it fell into disrepair until being found and restored by film fans.

The auction took place at two Planet Hollywood's

Since being brought back to its former glory in 1993, it has been on display at the Las Vegas branch of the Planet Hollywood restaurant chain.

It will remain at the restaurant, which has leased the machine until 2003.

The Parker and Lady Penelope puppets were both from Thunderbirds creator Anderson's personal collection.

Mr Anderson said he had "mixed feelings" about the sale, but added: "I don't think about yesterday, I am always thinking about tomorrow.

"The value of the puppets was constantly going up and it was a problem to insure them at home.

"I thought the time had come to get rid of them. I am a little sentimental but I am thinking about the next project."

A model of the Stingray submarine, made in 1963 and used in the series of the same name, was also expected to fetch between �9,000 and �10,000 at the auction.