Wootton Bassett’s old road signs are being auctioned on eBay by Wiltshire Council to raise money for Hope for Heroes.

The town was renamed Royal Wootton Bassett in October in recognition of the residents’ tributes during the repatriation of dead soldiers. Two original ‘Welcome to Wootton Bassett’ signs as well as two signs made for the renaming ceremony were listed individually on the auction site yesterday.

The price started at £50 each and so far the bidding has reached between £100 and £500 and totals more than £1,000. The auction is due to end at 8.30am on 23 December.

Council leader Jane Scott said: “Having seen the signs being taken down, it seemed a shame not to take advantage in trying to raise some money for our soldiers.”

She added: “We are hoping that maybe a kind benefactor might buy one and donate it to somewhere like the Imperial War Museum.”