James Bond star Sir Sean Connery has discreetly trademarked his own name in a bid to stop others from cashing in on his fame.

Documents filed in both the EU and the US show Sir Sean has enlisted the help of lawyers to ensure only he can turn a profit by licensing his name for use.

The veteran star will join global superstars like rapper 50 Cent and singer Beyonce in the move to protect his global brand.

The decision to trademark a name has become increasingly popular among younger, high earning celebrities in recent years.

But despite the former James Bond actor bringing the curtain down on his career more than 10 years ago, the 87-year-old remains commercially viable.

Documents filed with the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) show that he and his advisors have taken steps to protect his name across a slew of trademark classes.

It will mean his name cannot be used for a range of goods and services without permission and payment.

The restrictions include a ban on commercial products such as DVDs, books, games, and clothing.

But also span a range of items commonplace in the movie memorabilia trade, such as mugs, coasters, plates, and figurines.

Sir Sean and his lawyers will now be able to take legal action against the firms selling items such as these which are already available for sale online.

The restrictions even cover the likes of bumper stickers, oven mitts and greeting cards, as well as toilet paper, toothbrushes and napkin holders.

In what may be a nod to Bond's penchant for vodka martinis, the trademark also applies to cocktail shakers, as well as bottle openers, shot glasses, and wine glasses.

Campbell Newell, a partner at the Edinburgh office of intellectual property specialists Marks & Clerk, said: "Generally, we are seeing more celebrities registering their names and there have even been attempts by some individuals to register the rights to their faces to stop others riding on their proverbial coat tails.

"Trademarks are assets, so if you are in the creative industries, there is a benefit in registering your name.

"Quite often, you will be doing some sort of licensing arrangement with someone else."

He added: "David Beckham, for example, has been doing adverts for Haig whisky, and there will be a licensing arrangement between him and the firm.

"A trademark is something tangible which you can license to third parties with various terms and conditions."

Sir Sean last appeared in front of the camera in 2003's League of Extraordinary Gentleman.

Although he only officially confirmed his retirement three years later when accepting the American Film Institute's lifetime achievement award.

Since then, the former James Bond actor has divided his time between his homes in New York and Lyford Cay, an exclusive gated community in the Bahamas.

Five years ago, he announced he would no longer make official public appearances.