Rare Shropshire vase fails to sell

A 300-year-old Chinese vase spotted by chance in a Shropshire home failed to sell when it went under the auctioneer's hammer.

The vase had been was valued up to £500,000, but failed to attract interest when it went up for auction in Sotheby's in London yesterday, with opening bids of £200,000.

It was spotted on the dining room floor of a north Shropshire home by valuer Jeremy Rye.

Welshpool-based Mr Rye said after the auction: "I am very disappointed. It is a rare and fine piece."