AN exhibition inspired by the renovations of a 17th century Cononley farmhouse is due to take place at East Riddlesden Hall.

'Traces' will aim to connect the lives of people from the past to the present day, and will run from Saturday.

When the hall's artist in residence, Barbara Greene, moved to the area 20 years ago she began work on her farmhouse.

During the renovations, she uncovered a number of curiosities, some which could date back to when the house was originally built.

Fragments of china and glass were unearthed from the garden, ancient hooks and nails removed from the walls, and rags of hand-made cloth were found.

Also uncovered were bits from a 17th-century gin jar, marbles, and old pennies. As a result of her findings, Barbara has grown an interest in the agricultural and industrial development of the Aire Valley.

The exhibition creates connections between the objects found and the lives of people who lived and worked in the Aire Valley over the centuries.

Items on display will include printed artist books, boxes, screen and laser prints, printed textiles and small sculptures. Visitors will also be able to take a closer look at a selection of the original objects too.

Jackie Waters, house steward at East Riddlesden Hall, said: “Over the years we’ve found very similar objects under the floorboards and in the grounds here at East Riddlesden Hall. We're interested in comparing both sets of items to get a better understanding of how similar lives were in the Aire valley in the 17th century.”

The exhibition will be open from February 16 to February 21, between 11am and 3pm; and then at weekends between February 23 to March 10.