A MAN who swapped a mundane life on the factory floor to make traditional Mongolian huts will demonstrate his craft at a forest festival in the region this weekend.

Ian Greenwood, 41, from Easington, east Durham, gave up his job in a local factory five years ago, after being inspired by a friend.

He said: "I was originally interested in doing teepees, but a mate came back from Glastonbury Festival with a book on yurts, so I decided to give them a try."

Now he rents out his rustic shelters, made from wood and canvas, and even goes camping with them.

Each part of the structure is hand-made, with wood cut, carved and knotted together. In place of an animal skin covering, he uses canvas.

He said: "The yurt is very usable, portable and completely weatherproof. We go even go camping with them, but we do get the odd stare from caravan owners."

He launched this year's Chopwell Forest Festival yesterday, along with former boat builder Dave Folwell, 57, of Washington, Wearside, whose new lightweight bow design allows modern archers to outshoot the legendary English bowmen of Agincourt.

They were joined by members of the North-East Free Ride Association, who were showing off the North's newest mountain bike run.

The 1.5km trail will be launched at the festival.

The event is organised by the Forestry Commission and Friends of Chopwell Wood, which is between Gateshead and Consett.

Last summer's festival drew more than 7,000 people, making it the biggest woodland festival in England.

The festival is from noon to 5pm on Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on Sunday.

Entry is £3 for adults, and £2 for concessions. A family ticket is available for £8. For further details, call (01207) 542231, or visit www.jadz.demon.co.uk/focw