It shows a "freedom fantasy and a strong desire to be at home"

The crude landscape painted in oil on canvas went up for auction in Lincoln on Saturday, with a copy of a letter from Kray when he was in Broadmoor.

Psychiatrists said the painting reflected his "immature mind" and his desire to be freed from prison.

The signed oil on canvas of a cottage by a river was bought by a private collector. It had a �1,200 guide price.

'Unusual painting'

In the letter, Kray asked: "Did John give you the painting? Did you like it?" It is signed: "Your friend, Ron."

Clinton Slings by, of Lincoln auctioneer Thos Mower and Son Limited, said: "This is certainly one of the most unusual paintings to be entered into an auction in Lincoln."

Ronnie and his twin brother Reggie Kray ran a notorious gang in London's East End called The Firm during the 1950s and 1960s. They were both jailed in 1969 for 30 years.

Ronnie Kray, who died in 1995 aged 61, took up painting while in prison and often painted the same scene.

In his autobiography My Story, Kray notes prison psychologist Dr Glen Wilson's reaction to his work.

The painting measures 12in by 15in, and was owned by a Lincoln man but it is not known how he obtained it.