Dame Vera Lynn jewellery collection to be auctioned in Sussex

Dame Vera, who lived in Ditchling, captured the hearts of the nation during the Second World War with her uplifting musical performances and recordings.

She subsequently became known as the Forces’ Sweetheart, giving performances to troops as part of the Entertainments National Service Association.

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Several items from her private jewellery collection will go on sale at Toovey’s Washington saleroom, near Worthing, on March 16.

Among the items up for auction is a late-Victorian diamond-set heart shape pendant locket pave, set with old cut diamonds and carrying a pre-sale estimate of £7,000 to £10,000.

A diamond-set heart shape pendant locket, which is part of a collection of jewellery belonging to Dame Vera Lynn

Several rings, bracelets, necklaces and brooches often worn by Dame Vera are also on offer.

Virginia Lewis-Jones, Dame Vera’s daughter, said: “My mother’s jewellery reflected points of love in her life.

“Her charitable work was very precious to her so it is very fitting that the pieces of jewellery we have entered for auction at Toovey’s will benefit the Dame Vera Lynn Charitable Trust.”

Dame Vera Lynn and Harry Lewis

Toovey’s chairman Rupert Toovey said: “I have long admired the work of the Dame Vera Lynn Charitable Trust and I am delighted that Dame Vera’s jewellery will be sold to benefit the charity so close to her heart.

“Dame Vera Lynn was always outward facing and generous in using her gifts to make a difference to people’s lives, especially in the communities which she was particularly passionate about, those who served their country bravely in our Armed Forces, children with disabilities, and more recently, those she described as ‘the silent soldiers’ in our marvellous NHS”.