A FORMER model-maker's first attempt at a dolls' house will also be his last, making the creation something of a collector's piece.

When Russell Lord, of Chester-le-Street tried his hand at building a miniature house he created it to a 1/16th scale, not normally used in model-making.

But he created problems for himself as most miniatures are to 1/12th scale, and he, therefore, was unable to find any accessories of the right size to fill the house.

So Mr Lord, a time-served joiner, who went on to become a production manager with a model-making company, was forced to make his own tiny furnishings.

His wife, Alice, then added her own input to the project by creating many of the features in the adjoining garden.

The finished piece went on to win third place in the Townswomen's Guild craft competition entered by Mrs Lord.

Mr Lord has pledged that it will be his only departure into dolls' house making.

"It was very much a one-off and I won't be doing any more.

"It all started when we were looking in a model shop and I saw dolls' houses costing up to £300.

"I've got plenty of wood at home and I thought I could knock one out for a lot less than that. My wife said if I did, she would have it, and so I just got on with it."

The couple's dolls' house can be seen on display for the first, and probably the only time, during the next fortnight at Seaton Holme visitor centre, Easington Village, east Durham.

Mr and Mrs Lord were at the centre, in Hall Walks, yesterday setting up their one-off miniature display.

Published: 03/06/2004