A helmet belonging to four- time World Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel has been sold for a world record £72,000 (€85,670) in a charity auction.

The safety gear, signed by Vettel himself, was a Red Bull-sponsored helmet by Arai designed around Germany’s national colours.

It was worn during the Nurburgring Grand Prix race weekend in Germany this year – where Vettel celebrated his first home victory.

Auctioneer Toby Wilson put down the hammer at Bonham’s Oxford sale room with a final price of £72,100 (€85,792) to an overseas buyer.

The proceeds went to spinal cord research charity, Wings for Life.

A signed helmet belonging to Australian driver Mark Webber went for £17,500 (€20,823) with the proceeds also going to the charity.

Mr Wilson, who is head of Automobilia at Bonhams, said: “These helmets represent the very best of Formula 1, and to be able to offer these items at auction today was exciting for everyone involved.

“Not only did we achieve a world record auction price for a helmet but it is made all the more meaningful by the fact the money is going to a very worthy cause.”

A James Hunt Bell helmet worn by the Formula 1 champion during his 1976 World Championship-winning year, was sold for £37,500 (€44,626) at the same auction.