I have just presented an exciting talk about my costumes for a lovely group of ladies at Felton.

Felton is a beautiful village near Morpeth in Northumberland.

The talk was presented in an attractive hall in the centre of the Village. It has recently been refurbished and was a very pleasant setting for my costumes.

Henry VIII was the only gentleman present –  as usual he arrived to  a standing ovation. He was attended upon and every wish (including a cup of tea stirred by one of the kind ladies) was granted.

As I discussed the ruff I created for Elizabeth and how is was stiffened an interesting fact came to light.

Doreen a member of the group who works at the ‘poison garden’ in Alnwick Castle told me about a starch used during the 16th Century which was made of berry extract. Apparently the  extract was so  poisonous if you tasted it it would make your mouth swell massively and could kill you.

I mentioned my future bookings during the talk and I am very pleased to say that the ladies in the group are hoping to arrange an outing to Belsay Hall for the Weekend of Fashion.

The weekend of fashion takes place on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th August 2011 – my period fashion show will be presented twice daily.

The weekend also includes a look at Regency costume and ‘The ‘Spitfires’ a trio of ladies who will explore wartime clothing.  There will also be activities for children – it is set to be a super weekend.

I would like to thank the ladies of Felton for their welcome and hospitality last night  – I really enjoyed presenting the talk and chatting to them.

I hope to see them all at Belsay in August.