A rare signed print by the late artist David Hockney has been found tucked into a Salvation Army donation. 

The print was hidden between the pages of a copy of the artists' book, Paper Pools. It had been donated to the Goat Lane charity shop a year prior to Hockney's death - and the print was estimated to have been hidden for 46 years. 

Long-serving volunteer Jemma Banks noticed that it seemed genuine, and was able to preserve it. After verifying its status as a signed piece, the print and book were listed on the Salvation Army's eBay collectables catalogue, where they were bought for £41,160. 

The buyer - who wished to remain anonymous - said: “I’ve admired David Hockney’s work for many years, so acquiring such an iconic piece is incredibly special.

"I’m delighted that, at the same time, the purchase will help support the invaluable work of The Salvation Army. It’s wonderful to know that something with such cultural significance can also make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.”

Jemma Banks is a local artist herself, and said it was a "privilege" to have held the piece in her hands. 

"I never imagined just how significant it would turn out to be," she added. "I’m delighted that something hidden away for so long will now help raise money for people in our community who need it most.