Real life pirate treasure to go under the hammer

Kidd's mirror with skull and crossbones carved into it Credit: ITV Central

We all like the idea of finding treasure in the attic but a recent house clearance turned up some of the real stuff - once owned by a genuine pirate!

The three artefacts belonging to the notorious pirate Captain Kidd are set to be the star attraction at an auction tomorrow.

Kidd, whose life was said to inspire the creation of Johnny Depp's character Jack Sparrow, terrorised shipping during the late 17th century.

He was eventually captured and executed. But the authorities confiscated some of Kidd's prized possessions an now three of the items - a bible box, bible and mirror - featuring a gruesome skull and crossbones - are for sale.

The items surfaced after being discovered in a house in Peterborough. The historic hoard is expected to fetch around £1,000 when it goes up for sale later today at an auction house in Stourbridge.