SALE OF THE CENTURY

Scottish members of a consortium set up to save a unique collection of literature for the nation are celebrating after their international appeal has reached its £15 million target. The Blavatnik Honresfield Library collected and curated by a Rochdale businessman in the 1800s comprises priceless manuscripts, rare first editions and irreplaceable letters. These include works by Robert Burns (above) and Sir Walter Scott (above right). The library will no longer be sold at open auction and instead will be shared with libraries and other organisations across the UK. www.nls.uk