A DORCHESTER auction house is gearing up for a flurry of bids as an iconic Second World War Jeep goes on sale.

On Friday, October 16 a 1942 American Willys Jeep will go under the hammer at Duke's in Dorchester and is expected to fetch up to £15,000.

The military vehicles is seen as a forerunner that inspired a host of modern day 4x4 vehicles.

A spokesman for Duke's said: "Before their entry into Second World War, the US Military had determined that they needed a lightweight reconnaissance vehicle. "Inviting entries from car manufacturers, they received three entries from the American Bantam Car Company, Willys-Overland Motors and the American Bantam Car Company.

"Eventually, Willy’s Jeep became the chosen model, sharing production with Ford to keep up with the huge number of vehicles and parts required.

"Throughout the war Willys produced 363,000 and Ford produced around 280,000.

"This Jeep was one of the first to be produced, on June 23, 1942, during the first six months of production when Willys were the sole manufacturer.

"It travelled to England on a convoy, and from there its history is unknown.

"It is entirely likely that it saw service in Europe, and could well have been used at the D-Day landings. The Jeep was demilitarised on April 1, 1947, and sold on, having been last based at the Catterick Army base."

The vehicle was purchased by the current owner at Dallas Autos in 1997 and has been professionally restored.

The owner described the Jeep as "a joy to drive" and had taken it over to Normandy on a number of occasions.

They added: "I have had a lot of fun with this car, and it is surprisingly cheap to run.

"IIt has a very distinctive smell as the fuel tank is kept under the driver’s seat.

"I am selling because the car has a lot of cork seals, the gearbox is sealed with leather, and therefore it needs to be given a regular run out, every couple of days.

"I have just moved to London, and it isn’t getting the use it deserves!"

The lot is expected to sell for between £10,000 and £15,000.

Other notable lots included in next week's sale include a cigar smoked by Churchill, The Duke of Wellington’s blotter and a letter signed by Napoleon Bonaparte.

For more information contact Duke’s on 01305 265080.