A SEVEN metre high replica of the Eiffel Tower which formed the centrepiece to Tour de France celebrations in Burley-in-Wharfedale is gone up for sale on auction website eBay.

The tower - currently standing in a resident's garden in the centre of the village - was crafted in wood, with metal supports, by Burley Scouts and Guides.

Now hopeless romantics who "can't be bothered to go to Paris" are being given the chance to bring Paris to their own garden, and help raise money for a new scout and guide hut.

There were already four bids on Friday morning (August 8), and with seven days left until the end of auction, it has already broken the £100 mark.

Bidders are warned they "need a big truck" to move the structure, and those who built it arrange transport and reconstruction of the tower anywhere in the world subject to agreeing a separate fee.

But the buyer will have to arrange for their own scaffolding to form the structural frame for the tower, and may need planning permission to put it back up on their own property.

Burley parish councillor, Mike Wild, who listed the tower on eBay, says the aim is raise awareness of a £400,000 appeal by Burley Scouts and Guides towards building their new headquarters - as well as generate money for the cause.

He said: "Maybe people with a bit of cash to spare who've got fond recollections of going to scouts or guides in Burley will be prepared to help out."

An online account has also been set up to enable people to donate directly to the scouts and guides' appeal.

The Burley Eiffel tower auction can be found at: ebay.co.uk/itm/Eiffel-Tower-/331281539214?#ht_666wt_1277 or to make a donation, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/finalCharityHomepage.action?charityId=1009425.