The deal includes recordings plus publishing from Wells' wide-ranging catalogue spanning his early recordings in the 1950s right up until his death in 1998.

Cleopatra also bought various personal items that belonged to Wells, including his harmonicas, show suits, hats, canes, notes, photos and personal journals.

The label's owner Brian Perera says: "We're very excited to enter into this deal and be a part of the one of the all-time icons in American Blues history.