A PAIR of Queen Victoria's bloomers are expected to fetch up to £6,000 when they go under the hammer next week.

The split drawers - with a waist measuring an impressive 42.5 inches - are made of fine linen and embroidered VR 23.

They will be sold at Henry Aldridge and Son in Devizes, Wiltshire, along with a chemise which is also embroidered with the distinctive "VR".

Measuring 60 inches, the chemise is finished in lace and embroidered VR 32. It is expected to fetch up to £800.

The VR embroidered on the undergarments stands for Victoria Regina, with the numbers referring to the batch of clothing ordered.

No one other than the Queen would have been allowed to wear such items of clothing featuring the VR embroidery.

Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said: "The bloomers were given to the vendor's grandmother by one of Queen Victoria's ladies in waiting.

"Both items are in remarkable condition considering their age.

"Items of royal memorabilia of this nature are always keenly contested, they are a cross collectable and appeal to both royal collectors and those individuals who would like to buy a rarity or conversation piece that's a bit different."

The auction will take place on December 18.