A TIMBER masterpiece hewn out of oak is taking shape in a forest which provided the wood for the flagship of King Charles 1.

Artist Dave Gross is carving furiously to prepare his rustic creation in time for the Chopwell Forest Festival, between the villages of High Spen and Chopwell, Gateshead, at the weekend.

The oak, believed to be hundreds of years old, was fished out of the River Tyne during a previous riverside project.

David, of Seaham, said: "I thought the timbers might come in handy, and when I found that Chopwell supplied the oaks to build King Charles 1's flagship, Sovereign of the Seas, the germ of an idea formed."

David is recreating a 4m-long ship that, from a distance, looks like an oak leaf - but closer inspection reveals a nautical heritage.

The work will be unveiled at the festival, being organised by the Forestry Commission and Friends of Chopwell Wood, which is expected to draw more than 5,000 revellers.

Nearly 70 displays and exhibitors have been lined up to make the North-East's emergence as England's leading timber producing region.

Ranger Pippa Kirkham said: "Forest art is thriving in Chopwell and dovetails perfectly with the ancient forest skills showcased at the festival.

"We've assembled a huge array of wood turners, carvers, charcoal burners and basket makers to make sure the wood is filled with vibrant sights, sounds and smells."

Free hands-on activities include making paper, willow hurdles (fences) and bat and bird boxes.

Also preparing for the festival is 35-year-old mother Dawn Hope, who will be showing off her prowess as one of the region's few woman tree climbers by shinning up a 70ft pine.

And a Weardale couple, Beryl and Norman Brown, who are filling a niche for traditionally-carved rocking horses, will be delighting youngsters with some of their latest thoroughbred creations.

Festival gates open from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday - admission £2.50 adults, £1.50 for concessions and £6 for a family ticket.

For more information contact Lorraine Weeks on 01434 674672.