DID you know that buttons have existed since at least Roman times, or that King Louis XIV of France spent more than £2 million on them during his lifetime?

On Tuesday afternoon at the Mercer Art Gallery, Harrogate, comes the chance not only to learn more of the history of buttons, including the origin of London's Pearly Kings and Queens, but also to handle buttons of different designs and materials.

The illustrated talk will be led at 2pm by Michelle Horton of Harrogate's own specialist button retailers, Duttons for Buttons, and costs £4.50.

Booking in advance for this informal introduction is advised as places are limited. Either phone 01423 556188 or send an email to museums@harrogate.gov.uk or pop into the gallery.