Bidders battled to win a South Wales house at auction despite climbing plants covering most of the dilapidated, semi detached property.

A dozen bidders battled to secure the house buried under a mass of vegetation and in need of total renovation.

Listed with a guide price of just £32,000 the property at 236 New Road in Skewen, near Neath, sold for £63,500 after attracting a total of 61 bids.

Angie Davey, of Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions said the renovation project,  in gravel voiced singer Bonnie Tyler's hometown, attracted bids as soon as the lot went live.

“Property investors and developers were able to see  through the current condition of the overgrown property and were  be able to visualise it transformed into a lovely large family home..”

Angie said buyers weren't deterred despite the house being encased in climbers and the ceiling being held up by jacks in various places.

“Paint is peeling and wallpaper is hanging from the walls. Having said all this there is real potential in this large, semi detached home.

“Make no mistake, this is a  major renovation project but with money and imagination it could be turned into a lovely family home after a complete refurbishment.

“The large property  retains many original features and has lounge, dining room and kitchen plus three double bedrooms and a bathroom. The attic also offers scope, subject to planning permission”

“The garden is overgrown and currently inaccessible. It's a real jungle but it has huge potential. “

The project was being sold with vacant possession.