A COLLECTION of motor racing memorabilia that once belonged to racing driver turned Great Train Robber Roy James has been withdrawn after a dispute over their ownership.

The long-awaited auction was to take place at the Yorkshire Showground, in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, today.

Mr James was an accomplished racing driver with several career victories to his name when he acted as getaway driver in the infamous Great Train Robbery on August 8, 1963.

Mr James, known by the other gang members as The Weasel, successfully completed his part of the job by leading the gang to a hideout after the robbery.

He left a fingerprint at Leatherslade Farm, which proved crucial in capturing the gang and led to his conviction.

He was sentenced to 30 years' imprisonment in 1964, during which time portraits of him were painted by fellow inmates, including one by fellow Great Train Robber Charlie Wilson. Mr James was released on parole after he served 12 years of his sentence.

The collection, due to be auctioned by Bonhams, included 12 silver plate trophies and cups, two helmets with assorted visors and a helmet bag, a racing balaclava, a pair of racing boots, newspaper cuttings, magazines and four photographs.

Prayer books, a bible, three passports and two portraits were also to be auctioned.

However, a spokeswoman last night said all the lots had been withdrawn.

She said: "They were withdrawn from the auction late last week after a dispute over their ownership came to light.

"However, the auction itself is still going ahead and we have plenty of other fascinating lots."

Bidding starts at 10am and admission is by catalogue, which can be bought at the door.