Craftsman furnishing revival of old skills

By day, Ian Major is a conservationist but he spends his evenings and weekends fashioning furniture from Sherwood Forest timber.

Mr Major and fellow craftsman Bryan Eskriett have been working with the wood for years, and now plan to share their passion by hosting a beginners’ workshop.

The pair, who call themselves the Jolly Bodgers of Sherwood Forest , said their hobby kept ancient skills alive and described it as a fantastic stress-buster.

Mr Major, from Langwith, Derbyshire, added: “Areas like Worksop and Ollerton were once famous chair-making areas and the potential remains.

“Sometimes we can’t see the wood for the trees and don’t realise timber is a fantastic resource, as well as providing us with a wonderful landscape.”

The pair make chairs and stools and other household items, most of which they give away or use themselves.

They will teach people attending their two-day workshop on March 31 and April 1 how to make a stool, and tools, materials and refreshments will be provided.

The course costs £85 or £110 for those wishing to stay the night under canvas. To book a place contact Karina Thornton on 01623 821459, or email [email protected].