The hand-notated instrumental score by Beatles producer Sir George Martin, accompanied by an award marking 33 million sales of the track, is set to fetch up to �60,000 at an auction in Sotheby's, London on 21 May.

The auction follows the sale of Elton John's handwritten manuscript of the song for �280,000 in Los Angeles last year.

The song is the best-selling single of all time

Candle in the Wind was originally written by Elton John and his long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin in homage to Marilyn Monroe, who died in 1962.

Elton agreed to rework it for Diana's funeral in 1997, and it went on to become the biggest-selling single of all time.

The sale, which is the idea of the legendary 73-year-old record producer, will raise money for music charities.

A spokeswoman for Sir George said: "We are hoping for a lot more than the estimated �50,000 to �60,000 sale price for both items.

"Sir George is a legend as is Sir Elton John. Obviously it has got historical significance.

"As a piece of music memorabilia it is a highly attractive item - and the music memorabilia market is very strong."

The track was Sir George's 30th number one single - the highest of any record producer. It was also the last thing he ever produced.

He retired last year after a successful career spanning nearly four decades.