Paul McCartney's head reward

Oct 23, 2008, 11:25 GMT

Sir Paul McCartney gives the \'V\' sign as he returns to Jerusalem from a short visit to the West Bank town of Bethlehem on 24 September 2008. EPA/KOBI GIDEON

Sir Paul McCartney's waxwork head has earned a tramp £2,000.

Homeless Anthony Silva, 41, thought the head was a Halloween mask when he saw it poking out of a rubbish bag, but later discovered he could claim a reward after reading a newspaper article.

He said: "I've been down on my luck recently and have been sleeping rough. It's just what I needed and I hope my luck has changed for the better."

The homeless man - who claims he has been using the head as a pillow since he found it - said he will use the cash to pay off tax debts and buy a hot meal.

The head - which was made in the 60s - was accidentally left under a train seat by businessman Joby Carters last Thursday (16.10.08).

Since offering a reward for the safe return of the waxwork, Carters has been inundated with prank calls.

He explained: "We got a phone call from Abbey Road studios from a man claiming to have the head.

"We've had a lot of pranks calls so my assistant asked him to send in a picture and, lo and behold, there he is holding the head. He has not given us much information but he wanted to meet me personally."

The head is expected to fetch up to £10,000 at the auction, organised by Carters' Entertainment.

Carters added: "It's really fantastic to get it back. I'll be gutted if it doesn't go for very much after I paid out £2,000 for it."

McCartney was unavailable to comment.