FESTIVAL visitors learned that an unusual looking guitar on display did a lot more than was expected.

The special instrument was on show as part of York's Leaning Festival 2003, in North Yorkshire, which celebrates lifelong learning among people living, working and visiting the city.

Natalie Olden, right, of Immersive Media Spaces, based at the University of York Innovation Centre, was on hand to give sound advice and explain that the strange guitar was actually an electronic music technology kit.

The festival, held in Parliament Square, York, was hailed a success, and Liz McNeil, of Learning City York, said the guitar was particularly popular among visitors. Other activities at the event included flower arranging, chemistry and animal management.