A SERIES of talks takes place this month at historic East Riddlesden Hall.

On January 13 and 14, visitors can learn about how herbs were used – for purposes such as cleaning, seasoning food and helping relieve cold symptoms – in the 17th-century household.

On January 20, some of the jobs undertaken in the gardens of the National Trust property in preparation for spring will be outlined.

Mark Newman, archaeologist with the trust, will be present on January 21 to talk about Saxon Cross fragments found on the site and now displayed there.

And on January 27, a hall volunteer will outline the history of needlework and embroidery which forms part of the property's collection, and techniques used to create the pieces.

The talks are free, but normal admission charges to the hall will apply. Entry for National Trust members and under-fives is free.

For more details, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/east-riddlesden-hall