SIGNED DAVID HOCKNEY PRINT FOUND IN NORWICH CHARITY SHOP SELLS FOR £41,160

A signed print by David Hockney discovered inside a donated book at a Salvation Army charity shop in Norwich has sold for £41,160 at auction. The volunteer who found the item, Jemma Banks, noticed the original signed print whilst examining a copy of Paper Pools, which had been handed in over the counter. The print had remained inside the book for 46 years before being discovered. The Salvation Army Trading Company researched the artwork and listed it for sale on the charity's eBay Collectables & Curiosity shop, where bidding accelerated rapidly.

Paper Pools, published in 1980, documents some of Hockney's most recognised swimming pool artworks. Hockney died aged 88 last month. The anonymous buyer stated that he had admired Hockney's work for many years and described acquiring the piece as "incredibly special". The buyer also said he was pleased that his purchase would support the Salvation Army's charitable work.

Banks, described as a long-serving volunteer and local artist, said it had been "a privilege" to hold the signed print and expressed surprise at how well preserved it remained after nearly five decades. She stated that she had recognised the book might be significant but had not anticipated the extent of its value. All proceeds from the sale will support the Salvation Army's community work.