U1: "Historic" Leeds Lord Mayor's number plate sells for £750,000
Leeds City Council has found a buyer for the custom plate - which was owned by the Lord Mayors of Leeds
A unique custom number plate from vehicles used by the Lord Mayors of Leeds for more than 120 years has sold for £750,000.
Three specialist dealers were appointed to handle the process for Leeds City Council, with prospective buyers having a month to submit their bids.
The plate, simply reading 'U1', was the first to be issued in Leeds after the 1903 Motor Car Act was passed - requiring all vehicles to have a number plate.
It was bought by Leeds resident Rowland Winn, who later passed it to his friend Arthur Currer Briggs when he was elected Lord Mayor of Leeds.
The U1 plate has been used on vehicles for the Lord Mayor ever since, but is now being sold to help the council pay for essential services.
It's gone to the highest bidder.
Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for resources, said: "This sale will generate crucial funds to help deliver important services against the backdrop of a uniquely challenging financial situation.
“Protecting those services has to be our priority and we are pleased this process has given us the opportunity to raise such a significant sum.
"I am also pleased that the Lord Mayor's car will still be recognisable through the unique number plate L6EDS as they carry out their duties across the city and beyond."