An original artwork by Chagall fetched £1,700 at a charity auction last month.

The lithograph by the world-famous artist was auctioned-off at the Epsom and Ewell Conservative Association’s late summer ball on September 20 in aid of the Sunnybank Trust, which supports people with learning difficulties.

Julian Samways, who won the bidding war, said: "It's a fascinating and historic work of art, and I hope the money will make a difference to the work of the Sunnybank Trust".

More than £3,000 was raised for the charity at the event, with a Fred Olsen Cruise to Amsterdam and Antwerp bringing in £600 at the auction and a pair of Status Quo UK tour tickets, donated by the charity’s patron, Francis Rossi, fetching £150.

The association also donate 10 per cent of its ticket sales to the trust which is battling to raise enough money to stay afloat.

Epsom's MP, Chris Grayling, said, ‘I am delighted that we were able to raise just in excess of £3000 for The Sunnybank Trust. The work the trust do in is invaluable. They are my chosen charity for this year and I am so pleased to be able to support them’.

Guests at the ball at Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking were welcomed by Epsom Downs Primary School and the Children's Centre Steel Band.

They were then entertained by the Martineau Brass Quintet and the Downsend School Chamber Choir before tucking in to a selection of Indian dishes prepared by award winning local chef Enam Ali MBE.

Sara Olsen who helped organise it said: "The ball was a huge success and a truly spectacular event."

Follow our Shine On Appeal for the Sunnybank Trust