Hi all,

Just popping by to say hello from UK and introduce myself (I'll try not to bore anyone).

I'm 55 and used to play guitars/keyboards in bands several years ago but haven't dabbled since then. Having had to stop working due to illness, I have too much time on my hands that needs to be filled - preferably with instruments.

As a teenager, I had an electric guitar one Christmas but didn't really get into it. Being a Mott The Hoople fan (I still am), I decided it would be good to strip the guitar and use the parts to make a copy of Ian Hunter's 'Maltese Cross' guitar. Well, having only some scrap 3-quarter inch plywood, the same of chipwood, very few tools and only my school woodwork skills, it didn't go too well.

I left school and worked as a carpenter/joiner for about 30 years, thereby learning the skills I lacked in my youth. It was near the end of that career that I really got into guitars and keyboards. About ten years later, I gave it up and sunk the proceeds raised from selling my gear into photography, taking a backseat ride as a photographer for many local bands in and around Blackpool - and sometimes beyond.

After a few years, I started driving buses for a living - and haven't touched an instrument (musical or photographic) since.

I came across CBG's by way of a TV question show and became immediately intrigued. Hence, I looked online, found CB Nation and rekindled my teenage urge to make a guitar - or two.

Thus, here I am, with the basic skills and loads of desire to get going. First, I'll make a simple effort, then hopefully progress towards finally realising my 'Cross' guitar. Along the way, I want to have a go at making a twin neck, just for the challenge.

Catch you all soon...! :-)