A pair of Lawrence of Arabia's sandals - which had been kept safe in a Waitrose carrier bag - is going up for auction.

The British Army officer, who made his name in the First World War aiding the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, is believed to have clocked up quite a few miles in the well-worn shoes, according to experts.

Lawrence's exploits were dramatised in the 1962 Oscar-winning Hollywood historical epic, starring Peter O'Toole.

The brown sandals were among a series of keepsakes left by TE Lawrence to family friend Rodney Havelock Walker.

Also going under the hammer are photos of Mr Walker as a baby, wearing Lawrence's white lace christening robe, together with a picture taken by the adventurer while in Libya.

Another lot is a copy of Lawrence's book, Seven Pillars Of Wisdom, given to Mr Walker by his parents because of their connections.

The collection, which goes on sale at Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, Derbyshire, on December 19, is expected to fetch up to £3,000.

Mr Walker later bequeathed the mementos to another family, who have now decided to sell them.

Auctioneer and antiquities expert Charles Hanson said: "When I pulled Lawrence of Arabia's sandals out of a Waitrose carrier bag, I was astonished - and delighted.

"He is one of Britain's most iconic figures, a man who played a key role in world history and inspired one of the most famous films ever made.

"Most importantly, these items come with great provenance.

"The entire collection once belonged to Rodney Havelock Walker, who wore Lawrence of Arabia's christening gown.

"Their families were great friends and Walker bequeathed the items to our vendor's family.

"We understand the sandals were worn by the great man himself.

"Though in a delicate condition, they are remarkable survivors from almost a century ago. They must have faced rocky and sandy terrain and may be war-weary."

Lawrence, a diplomat, archaeologist and writer, was born in Wales in 1888, and earned renown for his role in helping Arab tribesmen against the Turks in the 1914-18 conflict.

Mr Hanson added: "He successfully united diverse, often warring, Arab tribes to fight the Turks and led military activities against Ottoman forces, culminating in the capture of Damascus in October 1918.

"His efforts contributed towards the making of the modern Middle East.

"We can only imagine the experiences he had in the Arabian peninsula but, thanks to this rare find, whoever buys this lot will be able to walk in his shoes."