The house where footballing legend Sir Stanley Matthews was born has been bought by a businessman.

Bob Ahmed paid �45,000 for the two-up, two-down terrace in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent.

The house, in Seymour Street, was originally put up for auction at the guide price of �25,000.

Sir Stanley, who went on to play 54 times for England, was born there on 1 February, 1915.

'Stoke's heritage'

Stoke-on-Trent's most famous son first honed his skills in the back yard of 89 Seymour Street.

Sir Stanley first honed his skills in this back yard

Sir Stanley practised for hours by kicking a ball against the walls.

Mr Ahmed, who owns a leather shop in the city, said the house cost him more than he expected, but he felt it was worth it.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "I think it is the history behind it and he (Sir Stanley) has got to be one of the best players ever for Stoke.

"It's part of the heritage of Stoke and we'll try to keep it in a good shape."

Sir Stanley became one of the most famous footballers of his generation, in a career that spanned 33 years.

In 1964, he became the first player to be knighted. He died in 2000.