London writer Gary Morecambe, 58, said the family were “really thrilled” to see their parents’ lifelong possessions sold at auction.

He said seeing the souvenirs go to new homes marked the definitive end of a wonderful era that “at least for Gail and I began in the 1950s.”

“I think what makes this such a unique event and such an important moment in our lives is that after our father’s death, our mother barely touched anything in the house.

“So we literally had everything under the same roof for 56 years.

“When thinking of my father, it is always easy to think of the great comedian who undoubtedly contributed to the other side of his life, a man with a serious passion for the natural world, who loved his home.”

Ms. Stuart, 71, added that growing up, she had no idea that her childhood was blessed with material surroundings and “special individuals…our parents.”

“Both had great talents, both focused their lives on family, both were always kind, humble and honest. Both received OBEs. All my memories are in glorious Technicolor.”

“We grew up sharing my father with the British people, with wonderful fans. It wasn’t until my father died that I realized how deep my love for him, Morecambe and Wise was.”