FED up with the pressures of life as a commercial high flier, Derek Millmoor has turned instead to the less lucrative pursuit of a lone piper.

And although the move has cost him a top salary, Derek, of Station Town, County Durham, could not be happier.

For years, Derek fought his way up the career ladder with one of the country's leading insurance companies.

And after 27 years in the field, he was earning a top salary and commanded the respect of his colleagues.

But success brought its own stressful price, with Derek spending less and less time with his wife, Brenda.

Fortunately, the lad from Horden who had made good, had always had a passion for music, including the playing of the bagpipes.

And when life in the fast lane became too much for Derek, he decided to turn instead to his music.

"I'd had enough of the pressure.

Derek, who lives with Brenda in a country cottage in East Durham, said: "I was working around the clock and I decided there was more to life than a big salary.''

Rejecting the financial rat race, he turned to his pipes for a living and practises each day for his commissions, which range from Burns Nights and Scottish-style parties to weddings, christenings and funerals.

He has played at everything from an octagenarian's wedding to a Buddhists' convention and when not fulfilling his own diary dates joins the ranks of the renowned Houghton Pipe Band.

Before moving to his rural retreat, he found it difficult to find places to practise, sometimes resorting to underground car parks or isolated headlands to give vent to the skirl of his pipes.

However, new technology, in the shape of a computerised chanter, means that Derek can live at peace with his neighbours.

Although he holds a passion for all things north of the border, Derek has not a single drop of Scottish blood in his veins.

"My family actually come from Ireland,'' said Derek who, to add authenticity to his performances, has paid out more than £2,000 for his Highland dress.

Anyone who would like to book Derek's piping services should contact him on (01429) 838686