Bing Crosby memorabilia under hammer in Scots town

Published on Saturday 22 October 2005 11:38

A MASSIVE collection of Bing Crosby memorabilia was set to go under the hammer today.

Hundreds of the legendary singer's records, signed photographs and even his pipe were being auctioned in Montrose.

The collection belonged to an elderly man from Fife, who gave it to Taylor's Auction Rooms in the Angus town when he moved to a retirement home.

It is thought the pensioner purchased the memorabilia through a Bing Crosby society.

An invitation to a pro-am golfing event which the singer and film star organised himself is also up for sale.

Other items include records from the 1960s and 1970s and signed photographs of wartime singer Vera Lynn.

Ian Taylor, owner of the auction rooms, said the collection had attracted global interest.

He said: "This must be one of the largest collections of Bing Crosby records in the world and probably the most extensive Bing Crosby collection in Scotland.

"We have hundreds of 78rpm records, posters and a pipe which we believe belonged to Bing.

"So far there has been a fair bit of interest, particularly in the records, and inquiries have been coming in to our website.

"Bing Crosby had an amazing career and I think that is reflected in the interest that has been shown."

Crosby entertained the public for more than 40 years, during which he starred in numerous films and clocked up more than 30 number one hits, including White Christmas.

He died in 1977 at the age of 74 minutes after he had completed a round of golf.