A COLLECTION of 50 embroidered samplers went on show in Malvern today (Friday).

They have been collected by antique dealer Robin Lloyd, who lives in West Malvern and has a business in Ross-on-Wye.

Mr Lloyd has been collecting the samplers for a client and has obtained permission to put them on show before they are delivered.

The samplers date mostly from the 19th Century, although there are a few earlier and later examples, including one of 18th Century Chinese embroidery.

Also on show will be a display of old needlework tools and a bring-and-buy table for needlecraft materials and books.

Money raised at the exhibition will go to the Christian charity Hope Now, to help establish orphanages in the Ukraine and provide sports facilities for underprivileged young people in South Africa.

A display stand at the exhibition will outline the work of Hope Now.

Mr Lloyd said: "As the samplers were worked generally by young people living at a time when the mortality of mother and siblings was ever present, I thought it would be good to link the exhibition to young people in our time who are also struggling in life."

The display is at the Sir Barry Jackson Room, Grange Road, Malvern, from 10am to 5pm today (Friday) and tomorrow.