An auction of Marilyn Monroe memorabilia to mark the 40th anniversary of her death has raised more than �16,000.

A ring with the letter M studded in diamante stones was the most expensive item, fetching �5,000 despite an estimated value of up to just �1,300.

The jewellery is personalised

A Pucci dress that the actress wore went for �3,500, while a signed United Airlines postcard fetched the same amount.

All six items beat their estimated prices - but were still a long way short of the prices that have been paid for Monroe items in the past.

In 2001, two of her most famous dresses sold for a world record $1.5m (�960,000).

The "M" ring that was sold in London on Tuesday had been a gift from Monroe to a friend of her mother's whom she lived with in her teenage years, Grace Goddard.

A pair of teardrop earrings encrusted with rhinestones, which had been given to Monroe's foster sister Eleanor "Bebe" Goddard, sold for �2,000.

Two bracelets fetched �1,000 and �1,100.

Icon

The dress was a long, silk design in shades of blue and turquoise, while the postcard was signed: "To Judy Love & Kisses Marilyn Monroe."

Monroe died on 5 August 1962 at the age of 36, ensuring lasting iconic status.

As well as Monroe memorabilia, the auction, at the Cooper Owen Galleries and called At The Movies, sold items from a range of classic films.

An original model submarine used in an episode of Thunderbirds was bought for �4,000, while the "Sankara Stone" used in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom fetched �3,600.