AN historic document signed by Sir Francis Drake on the same day he led the English fleet to fight against the Spanish Armada is now up for sale.

A will and testament dated May 30, 1588, and signed by Tavistock-born Sir Francis Drake is on the market with an American collector for nearly £1.2-million and could generate interest from local and national historians and museums.

The document reveals that he left all his land and belongings to his wife Elizabeth and brother Thomas.

The will is being sold on the owner’s behalf by Moments In Time, a company that buy and sell original letters, autographs and signed photos of important people throughout history, including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Sir Winston Churchill and Albert Einstein.

Spokesman Gary Zimet said his client does not recall where he acquired the document but added that ’Drake memorabilia is very rare’.

The item is listed for $1.6-million — equivalent to around £1.18-million.

The full transcript of the will, signed and dated by Sir Francis Drake on May 30, 1588:

’For as much as I am now presently bound unto the seas for special service of her majesty and that during the time of my absence sundry things are to be done which I cannot supply in person,  I have therefore thought good upon the singular trust and confidence which I have of Dame Elizabeth,  my wife and Thomas Drake gent., my brother, to authorize and depute them.

’As also by these present,  I do authorize and depute them as well to let and set all and singular my lands, tenements and hereditaments whatsoever to my best benefit and behoofe, as also to receive all such rente and revenues as unto me are belonging or appertaigninge. And to do in all other things in as large manner as I might do if I were personally present.

’And whatsoever the said Dame Elizabeth and Thomas Drake shall do and procure to be done in the pregnesses I promise to ratify the same by these present.’