Only around 500 copies were printed

Toby Rundle, 19, from Somerset, auctioned the hardback copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in order to fund his university degree.

Mr Rundle was sent the book by his mother while he was at boarding school.

The book - one of only around 500 printed - was auctioned in Cirencester but reached less than half of its expected sale price of �15,000.

The teenager will be studying Classical English at Oxford University from September.

'Less than 100'

The book was bought by collector David Beswick from Hull, who was reported to be happy with the price.

Chris Albury, from Dominic Winter auctioneers, added: "Most of these first editions went into libraries.

"The amount that went into book shops is probably less than 100."

The book was printed in 1997 and has a cover price of �10.99.