ONE of the country's most celebrated collections of costumes and textiles is about to come under the public spotlight.

The Castle Museum, in York, houses vast collections of costumes, jewellery and accessories, dating from the 17th to the 20th Century.

Later this month, curator Josie Sheppard will be giving enthusiasts an exclusive behind-the-scenes look.

The evening will allow people to see examples from the everyday to the highly unusual. Among the items to be discussed is an exquisite 17th Century purse decorated with gold thread, and supplementary material, such as women's magazines and 1970s knitting patterns for men's jumpers.

Ms Sheppard said: "The evening will include a pot pourri of examples from the collection and will allow people a rare glimpse of items that are not normally seen."

The event, on January 30, will get under way at 7.30pm and include a 45-minute talk. Tickets are £4 and must be bought in advance. Contact (01904) 553125