The GRR1 plate dates back to the 1940s and was used on the Mansfield District Council's chauffer driven limousine until it was sold off in 2003.

The chairman and mayor now transport themselves around, with the mayor in a sponsored Skoda Superb car.

The council is asking for sealed bids for the plate by 31 October, and it will go to the highest bidder.

'Various options'

An offer of £7,000 was received earlier this year, but the council is expecting it to go for a higher figure.

Executive Mayor Tony Egginton said: "Although we got rid of the limousine in 2003, we initially decided to retain the registration plate because of its history.

"We had various options, such as putting it on display here at the council, placing it on another council-owned vehicle, or selling it to raise funds for the council.

"The cabinet made an executive decision in July there was no real need to retain the number plate and instead it could be sold to help raise funds for the council."